F-22 Raptor photographed with sensor pods and light-colored underside panels
New images of an F-22A Raptor show external sensor pods under its outer wings and pale panels on the fuselage underside. The aircraft was flying over California's Aerospace Valley.
New photographs of an F-22A Raptor show the stealth fighter carrying two external sensor pods beneath its outer wing stations, along with light-colored panels on the underside of the aircraft. Their purpose is not known.
The images were shared on social media on Sept. 19, 2026 by a contributor, and the jet, using the callsign "FEVER21," was flying over the Aerospace Valley in California when it was photographed.
The Raptor was later seen refueling from an NKC-135 tanker, callsign "GHOST81," while accompanied by an F-16 Fighting Falcon. The tanker is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base in California and is modified with equipment for test and evaluation work.
The two pods are mounted on the outer wing stations. According to the available imagery, this is possibly the clearest look at the pods since they appeared in March 2026 together with new stealth external fuel tanks.
The equipment has previously been linked to work on an infrared search and track capability for the F-22. The exact setup and role of each pod has not been made public. At least one pod showed a transparent section at its front, which is consistent with an infrared or other optical sensor.
The light coloration of the underside panels stands out in several of the images. Their function has not been established.
Sources
- theaviationist.comF-22 Raptor Spotted Again With Stealth Pods and Unusually Colored Underside