US deploys F-22 fighter jets to Europe

Four F-22 fighter jets, a cargo plane and about 60 airmen arrived Friday at Germany's Spangdahlem Air Base to take part in upcoming NATO military exercises. The US Air Force confirmed that the F-22s had been deployed to Europe for the first time, stressing its commitment to ensuring security in Europe.

The repositioning of the jets was widely regarded as a deterrent to potential aggression from Russia against the backdrop of continuing military action in Ukraine. The Pentagon said that the training exercises were intended to give fighter pilots opportunities to conduct combat air training with various aircrafts, including F-15 Eagles and F-16 Fighting Falcons.

"This deployment advances our airpower evolution and demonstrates our resolve and commitment to European safety and security," said General Frank Gorenc, commander of US Air Forces in Europe and Africa.

Most sophisticated fighter jet in US arsenal

The F-22 Raptor is the most modern fighter jet in the US Air Force arsenal. The production of each jet costs $140 million, according to manufacturer Lockheed Martin. Some experts think, however, that the fighter jets might cost as much as $350 million per aircraft after taking servicing and repairs into consideration.

Despite measuring 19 meters (62 feet) in length, the Raptor remains virtually undetectable by radar technology with its stealthy design.

Associated Press reports also mentioned the deployment of further F-22 Raptor jets to a US air base in Poland, which borders war-torn Ukraine.

ss/lw (dpa, Reuters)