In April 2008, some pilots flying the Air Force’s vaunted F-22 Raptor began reporting trouble breathing while in the air. More than four years later, the Pentagon still hasn’t solved the problem, apparently a serious one involving equipment. …
A few pilots actually have refused to fly the F-22, because of the oxygen system failure.
The F-22, at more than $400 million each when fully equipped, is among the most advanced weapons in the U.S. arsenal. It is a stealth craft, made to invade enemy airspace without being detected. Given the shift in tactics used by the armed forces, it is critical the Air Force be able to deploy F-22s whenever and wherever they are needed.
Yet earlier this year, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta ordered no F-22 be sent on a mission outside a “proximate distance” from a base — in case pilots suffer oxygen deprivation. …
Some members of Congress, both Democrat and Republican, want answers about the F-22. They should insist on assurances pilots are not being jeopardized — and national defense is not being hampered. Then, they should demand to know why it took so long for the Air Force to address what clearly is a serious problem.
Warren (Ohio) Tribune Chronicle (July 8)
The Air Force’s official position will show how vital this fighter aircraft is to national security. By the way, the Air Force is run by pilots…fighter pilots.
no bigger boy’s club then the fighter pilots club!
Ain’t it the truth. At least when the bomber guys ran the world, they knew there were other missions besides theirs.
f-22 = prob for Micheal Bay movies.