Released: 7 Apr 2000
Following application of the F-22 Raptor's stealthy new "topcoat" of paint at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., a worker reapplies U.S. Air Force markings on the aircraft. Boeing developed the new paint, which will reduce vulnerability to infrared threats. (Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems photo by Kevin Robertson)
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SEATTLE (AFPN) -- Boeing has developed a new paint that will increase the F-22 Raptor's stealthiness, thereby reducing vulnerability to infrared threats. The paint, referred to as a "topcoat," was applied to Raptor 02 at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., March 23.
To meet F-22 requirements, Boeing developed the topcoat to protect the aircraft against threats that use a broad range of wavelengths. The new paint replaces conventional topcoats, performing all the required environmentally protective functions while also reducing vulnerability to detection.
The new topcoat does not add to the F-22's weight, and provides performance enhancement at a very modest cost. It is applied in a two-tone camouflage design, patterned after the F-15 "Mod-Eagle" paint scheme.
Boeing began developing the new paint during the early stages of the F-22 program. Since that time, a small team in Seattle has worked to refine the paint and improve its application characteristics in the production environment.
F-22 teammate, Lockheed Martin, will paint the first few aircraft by hand, however, robotic application is planned in the future. Raptor 04 will receive its new topcoat next. Each application is expected to take one to two days. (Courtesy of Air Combat Command News Service and Boeing Company news release)