LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
The F-22 Raptor is well known for its stealthy ability, keeping it nearly invisible to enemy radar. But how can such a large aircraft go undetected?
The 1st Maintenance Squadron's Low Observable section at Langley Air Force Base, Va., maintains the coatings that create the Raptor's low profile.
Low observable technology minimizes the aircraft's radar signature, making the Raptor undetectable to enemy radar.
"I believe it is one of the most important aspects of the Raptor. When we use the F-22 in combat, being stealth could be the difference between life and death for the pilot," said 2nd Lt. Chance English, 1st MXS Fabrication flight commander. "The LO system is critical for the F-22 to accomplish its mission."
The LO section runs a 24-hour, 7 day a week operation, occasionally closing its doors on holidays. Maintenance Airmen hone their time management skills to repair the jets and return them to mission-capable status as quickly as possible.
"Although I may not be able to see a project from beginning to end due to the length of repairs, there's satisfaction in knowing I had a hand in it," said Staff Sgt. Ronald Leeman, 1st MXS aircraft structural maintenance craftsman.
The LO section supports the 27th and 94th Fighter Squadrons and Aircraft Maintenance Units. The section runs continual inspections and constant repairs to keep the jets coatings pristine and stealthy.
LO uses innovative techniques, such as form-in-place panel resurfacing to create easy access panels. The section was proactive during the recent stand down of the Raptor making those form-in-place panels go from a 48 hour coatings repair to a simple installation and removal of a panel. This innovative technique has saved the 1st Fighter Wing more than 400 hours of labor since the beginning of 2012.
English said what his Airmen do is "truly an art form," and that from beginning to end, "attention to detail, hard work and positive attitudes make the mission run smoothly."
"Low observables, some say, is what separates the F-22 Raptor from other fighter jets," Leeman said.
While the LO technology is phenomenal, English said it is the Airmen who make the biggest impact, highlighting its two recent John L. Levitow award winners -- Tech. Sgt. Mollie Phillips from the Noncommissioned Officer Academy, and Staff Sgt. Cameron Schott from Langley's Airman Leadership School.