We are proud to build such a sophisticated, 5th Generation stealth fighter that can do things better than we ever imagined.

The Raptor not only combines the capabilities of several legacy aircraft by delivering air dominance, lethal intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, but it does so without adversaries even knowing the aircraft is out there -- as proven this past year.

The Raptor not only combines the capabilities of several legacy aircraft by delivering air dominance, lethal intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, but it does so without adversaries even knowing the aircraft is out there -- as proven this past year. As the world's only 5th Generation fighter aircraft in operation, it has overwhelming capability to ensure USAF air dominance for the next four decades.

This is another great day for the Air Force, the Lockheed Martin-led industry team, and of course our nation, to receive such a validating test rating.

It's another great day for our nation, the Air Force and certainly for the Raptor industry team. Thousands of workers in 42 states throughout our nation can take great pride in the fact that we not only met the customer's requirements, but we exceeded these expectations and produced a revolutionary fighter aircraft for our country. The Raptor is the very first supersonic, stealth fighter that incorporates capabilities never before possible in one weapons system and in the words of the Air Force, achieves 'overwhelming' performance.

We left Charleston four days later and got to St. Augustine in 28 hours in light winds.