Raptors arrive

  • Published
  • By Samuel King Jr.
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  A new predator appeared in the skies here for a short time Nov. 20.  The stealthy warbirds circled, scanning the area before approaching and setting down at their new home.  Very soon, the aerial newcomer will be a common sight among Team Eglin’s birds of prey. 

The first six 325th Fighter Wing F-22A Raptors arrived here Nov. 20 to their temporary facilities with Team Eglin. The 43rd and 2nd Fighter Squadron aircraft arrivals are part of the recently-announced moves by the Air Force in the wake of Hurricane Michael.

“These decisions were important first steps to provide stability and certainty,” said Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson. “We’re working hard to return their lives to normalcy as quickly as possible.”

The initial Raptors, with more on the way, will share flight line space with their fellow fifth generation fighter, the F-35A Lightning II.