The advanced stealth fighters departed Langley Air Force Base in Virginia, flying in three groups under the callsigns TABOR51, TABOR61 and TABOR71, each consisting of four aircraft. Their transatlantic journey was facilitated by KC-135 and KC-10 tanker aircraft using the GOLD callsign series.
While the Raptors were not visible on public tracking systems, military spotters and livestream footage confirmed their arrival at dusk, escorted by the supporting tanker fleet. Videos captured the moment the aircraft touched down at RAF Lakenheath, prompting widespread observation within the defence community.
The Pentagon has not issued any official statement on the deployment. However, the scale of the operation and the nature of the assets involved have fuelled speculation of a potential posture shift by the US military.
The F-22 Raptor is widely regarded as the world’s most advanced air superiority fighter, known for its stealth, speed, and agility. Its deployment to Europe in significant numbers is frequently interpreted either as a show of deterrence or as a prelude to heightened military readiness.
Observers have linked the move to escalating regional tensions, particularly concerning Iran. While no formal link has been confirmed, the presence of the Raptors adds to a growing pattern of U.S. force adjustments.
