The Air Force sought about $30 billion for a new bomber variant derived from the F-22, designated the FB-22 and designed to fly at Mach 1.8. The F-22 program ended with 187 operational aircraft, far below earlier projections, raising affordability concerns for a derivative aircraft.
WHO:US Air Force
WHAT:The Air Force needed an estimated $30 billion to develop the FB-22, a Mach 1.8 bomber derived from the F-22.
WHEN:Reported Aug 26, 2026 at 4:01 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The estimated cost of the FB-22 was not affordable alongside the F-22 fighter program, which concluded with only 187 operational aircraft.
Reporting from 1 identified publisher for this event.
