1
For more on the F/A-22, see CRS Report RL31673, F/A-22 Raptor.
2
Ron Laurenzo, “Roche Envisions Close Air Support F-22,” Defense Week, July 1, 2002.
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress
CRS Report for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
Order Code RS21848
March 21, 2005
Air Force FB-22 Bomber Concept
Christopher Bolkcom
Specialist in National Defense
Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division
Summary
The Air Force has expressed interest in developing a bomber variant of the F/A-22
Raptor to “bridge the gap” between today’s bombers and a follow-on bomber in 2037.
Questions exist regarding the FB-22’s feasability, cost, and combat potential. This
report will be updated as events warrant.
Background
In 2002 it was reported that Lockheed Martin Corp. had begun studying a radically
modified version of the Raptor called the FB-22 . This variant would seek to significantly
increase the F/A-22’s air-to-ground capabilities, primarily through a redesign that would
double the aircraft’s range and significantly increase the aircraft’s internal payload.
1
Some
estimate that the delta-winged FB-22 could carry up to 30 of the developmental 250-lb
Small Diameter Bombs. These potential improvements would likely result in some
performance tradeoffs, such as reduced acceleration, speed, and maneuverability.
Although not officially part of the F/A-22 program, and still in the conceptual phase,
the FB-22 idea has elicited enthusiasm from some Air Force leaders. Air Force Secretary
James Roche reportedly favors the FB-22 as the potential platform of choice for providing
better close air support for tomorrow’s ground forces.
2
Air Force leaders have also
depicted the FB-22 as a medium-range bomber that could serve as a “bridge” between the
current bomber force and a follow-on capability to be fielded in the 2037 time-frame. On
April 29, 2004, the Air Force issued to industry a “request for information” on resources
and technologies that might contribute to a regional, or interim bomber.
Other officials have reportedly shown less interest in the FB-22. Air Force
acquisition chief Marvin Sambur said that the F/A-22’s developmental difficulties would
