This footage, taken from the cockpit of an F-22 Raptor, courtesy of Captain Samuel “Razz” Larson, shows a unique juxtaposition- the US Air Force’s F-22 Demo Team with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, launching SpaceX’s 40th mission of the year on 18 April, 2024.

This launch, designated 06-52, was sent up to deliver more of SpaceX’s satellites to its Starlink constellation. Starlink is intended to provide internet connectivity all over the globe. However, while the martial implications of Starlink are already being explored (for example, in Ukraine), the F-22s shown here are part of the demo team, and not flying to provide security of any kind. The booster shown, which returned to Earth in a successful landing on SpaceX’s recovery ship “A Shortfall of Gravitas” has previously served to deliver astronauts to the International Space Station.

The F-22 Demo Team is based in Langley, Virginia and has been active since 2007. This team replaced the USAF’s F-15 demo team (not to be confused with the Thunderbirds, the USAF’s precision flying team). Like the F-15 team before it, the F-22 team is dedicated to showcasing the power and maneuverability of the Air Force’s premier fighter.

Talk about the best seat in the house.

 

About the Author

 

       

     

Cole Simms

     

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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