World’s most advanced fighter

 The F-22, designed and built by Lockheed Martin Corp., is considered the most advanced fighter jet in the world. It entered service in 2005, and the Air Force is set to receive the last of its order of 188 planes later this month.

 The plane can reach supersonic speeds without using afterburners, enabling it to fly faster and farther. It’s also packed with cutting-edge radar and sensors, enabling a pilot to identify, track and shoot an enemy aircraft before that craft can detect the F-22. The Air Force says the aircraft is essential to maintain air dominance around the world.

 According to the Air Force, each of the sleek, diamond-winged aircraft costs $143 million. Counting upgrades and research and development costs, the U.S. Government Accountability Office estimates each F-22 cost taxpayers $412 million.

 While other warplanes in the U.S. arsenal have been used to pummel targets in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya, the Air Force’s F-22s have sat largely idle, used only in test missions. Even so, throughout the jet’s development, F-22 pilots have been in seven serious crashes, including two fatalities.