Why has it taken 20+ years of R&D for the f-22 from flyoff to production? (1989-today)?

Question

I still think that the f-22 (with the 500mil price tag) is a total wast of money, besides the f-23 out flew it and the threat is just not there.

1983-1989 was the pre flying.
20 yrs is not typical
less then 10 is
F-15 drawings 1969
F-15 first flight 07/27/1972
F-18 drawings 1974
F-18 first flight 11/18/1978
F-18E&F less than 8 yrs
F-15E,I,K,S=60mil
F-18E&F=50mil

A380 295Mil
http://www.airbusa380.com/
737 50mil +
747 228mil+
http://www.boeing.com/commercial/prices/

Answer 1

20 years is typical. The F-22 was more maneuverable and stilll able to supercruise more efficiently than the 23. And the total cost is about $63.2 billion, counting research and development, aircraft and construction of new facilities for the 183 aircraft a price of around 340 mil. However production alone is closer to 85 mil or twice that of the F-15. Only one aircraft commercial or military is more expensive the B-2, a steal at $2.2 bil.

Answer 2

Technology. In a nutshell that is the reason. Highly advanced aerodynamics, leading edge electronics, exotic materials used in the airframe. Testing, testing, testing.....

Ah for the "good ole days". The British approached Curtiss Aircraft Co., wanting to purchase P-40 fighter planes (a good plane but being bettered by newer aircraft designs). North American Aircraft Co. told the British to forget the P-40 and they would design them a totally new aircraft...and they did. The P-51 Mustang...total time from drawing board to first flight??? 120 Days.

Answer 3

Wouldn't 20 years of R&D be from 1989 be 2009? Since it's only 2007, that is 18 years of R&D, not 20+.

Answer 4

I've never heard if an F-22, but I believe 20+ years of R&D is typical of nearly all products before they hit the marketplace.