F-22As scheduled to deploy from Langley

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AP) - More than 100 Langley Airmen and 12 of the Air Force's most capable fighters will deploy early in the new year as part of a theater security package being sent to the Western Pacific.

The 27th Fighter Squadron will deploy a contingent of F-22A Raptors to Kadena Air Base, Japan, in January 2009 for approximately three months. Another contingent of 12 F-22A Raptors, from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is scheduled to deploy to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.

The F-22A is a transformational combat aircraft that can avoid enemy detection, cruises at supersonic speeds, is highly maneuverable, and provides the joint force an unprecedented level of integrated situational awareness.

As part of continuing force posture adjustments to address worldwide requirements, the United States continues to deploy additional forces throughout the Western Pacific. This is the latest example of the flexibility U.S. forces have to meet their ongoing commitments and security obligations throughout the Pacific region.