LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Twelve Raptors left their nest Feb. 7 for a 22-hour flight across the Pacific Ocean - the final phase of the F-22A's first real-world deployment.
Along with the Air Force's newest weapon system, more than 250 Airmen left Feb.6, as part of the regularly scheduled Air Expeditionary Force deployment, which has been planned since the Raptor achieved initial operational capability in December 2005.
While deployed, pilots and maintainers will work with other Air Force and Navy squadrons from the Pacific region.
"We learn more about what we can bring to the fight by working with other squadrons and branches," Colonel Tolliver said.
While deployed, the 27th FS plans to maintain a standard flying schedule much like their schedule here. The goal for pilots and maintainers is to make this transition from home to overseas as seamless as possible.
"We're going to keep our normal lives and shifts like we do back home," said Staff Sgt. John Laurence, a 27th S crew chief. "The only difference is we're on the other side of the world."
In Japan, the 27th FS will fall under Kadena AB's 18th Wing, and will use their hangars and support throughout the 120-day temporary duty assignment. Along with the Raptors and personnel, the 27th FS will also bring two-thirds of the equipment needed to maintain the jets from Langley.
The F-22A currently takes the same amount of personnel and equipment needed for an F-15 TDY. However, as the plane becomes older and Airmen gain experience working on the plane, manning demands will decrease, allowing fewer Airmen to spend less time on maintenance.
"We are still young at flying this airplane," said Colonel Tolliver. "As this plane matures, we will be better at maintaining the aircraft by knowing what spare parts and tools we need. But right now, we're comparable."
Deploying to Japan is also a chance to prove the plane's combat readiness and capabilities.
"We are deploying and employing a brand new jet to an area that isn't set up for an F-22 yet," said Sergeant Laurence. "It's a statement saying we are no-kidding ready to go at any time and any place."
For most who haven't been, Japan will be a new environment and a chance to learn more about their job.
"We are absolutely looking forward to seeing what we can learn, while we're gone," said Sergeant Laurence. "We have been waiting for this all year."