F-22 deployment to Kadena delayed

  • Published
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (AFNEWS) --  While en route to Kadena Air Base, Japan, Feb. 10, a software issue affecting the F-22 Raptor's navigation system was discovered. 

All aircraft, which departed Hickam AFB earlier that day, returned safely. F-22 engineers and maintainers are working to update the software. After successful testing, the aircraft will continue their planned first overseas deployment to Kadena. Officials expect the aircraft will depart Hickam AFB within the next several days. 

"This is a minor issue, and, since our focus is always on safety, the aircraft will not depart until we are confident there are no further issues with the navigation system," said Lt. Gen. Loyd S. Utterback, the 13th Air Force commander. 

The Air Force is deploying 12 F-22 Raptors and more than 250 members from the 27th Fighter Squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Va., to Kadena AB as part of a regularly scheduled U.S. Pacific Command rotation of aircraft to the Pacific. 

Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

Click here to view the comments/letters page