These Military Vehicles Cost More Than Your House

12. The USA's F-22 Raptor

Producers: Boeing, Lockheed Martin

Main User: U.S. Air Force

Program Cost (FY2010): $67.3 billion*

Unit Cost (FY2009): $150 million* (flyaway cost)

The F-22 Raptor is a twin-engine, single-seat, all-weather tactical fighter developed primarily for the U.S. Air Force. This advanced aircraft was produced as part of the Advanced Tactical Fighter Program and features cutting-edge technology for superior air combat capabilities.

With a total of 187 operational aircraft and an additional eight test aircraft, the F-22 Raptor has established itself as a dominant force in modern aerial warfare. Production spanned from 1996 to 2011, reflecting a significant investment in military aviation innovation.

The program cost reached approximately $67.3 billion as of FY2010, with a unit cost of around $150 million for the flyaway cost in FY2009.

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Shutterstock/LLockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (USA) A fighter with air superiority is the F-22. It can also conduct electronic warfare, launch ground attacks, and gather signal intelligence. Boeing produced the training systems, avionics integration, aft fuselage, and wings, while Lockheed constructed the airframe and weaponry. According to the Air Force, the F-22 is essential to both its air combat and tactical airpower capabilities. Military authorities had originally intended to purchase 750 ATFs. But in 2009, that number was drastically reduced to just 187 aircraft due to prohibitive export duties, exorbitant expenses, and the introduction of the more adaptable F-35. Another reason for a deficiency in air-to-air missions was the postponement of fighter programs in China and Russia.