[DoughtyOne]

Considered that it could not carry external fuel tanks (to keep a low radar signature), the F-22 were refueled at least two or three times to make it to North Syria and back to the UAE, flying a mission most probably exceeding the 6 – 7 hours flying time.

The F-22 is an amazing aircraft. It almost seems as if those who ordered it's production shut down, didn't have a single clue.

The range on of the F-22 is 1839 miles. The distance from UAE to Damascus is 1254 miles.

I doubt the aircraft had to refuel more than once.

[tanknetter]

Combat aircraft range calculations are similar to MPG ratings for cars: they tend to exclude real world operational scenarios.

Aircraft need to maintain reserve fuel in anticipation of various contingencies, including unanticipated maneuvering, needing to recover at divert fields, the refueling recepticle breaking, etc.

Three refuels would make sense. First shortly after takeoff to top off the tanks. Second before crossing into enemy airspace. Third on the way home. The Raptors’ tanks were probably never more than half empty along the way ...