Khaberni - The US Air Force announced the withdrawal of "F-22 Raptor" fighters from the air show scheduled for Sunday as part of the celebrations of the final match in the American football championship "Super Bowl Sixteen" at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, according to the American "Military Times" site.
Katy Spencer, director of the Air Force's sports outreach program, stated that the decision came due to urgent operational tasks requiring the re-allocation of aircraft for other missions, and she confirmed that the withdrawal of the "F-22" does not reflect any technical or security issues but comes within the normal operating priorities of the Air Force.
Despite the absence of "F-22" aircraft, the organizers of the display clarified that the air event will continue with the participation of "F-15C" and "F-35C" fighters, alongside "B-1" bombers, to provide a comprehensive air show involving about 8 aircraft.
Spencer explained that the initial display plan included two "F-22" aircraft to showcase the latest jet aircraft, but operational needs led to their withdrawal.
She added that the "F-22" played a pivotal role in missions such as "Midnight Hammer" in June, and raids on Islamic State sites in Syria during January and February.
Spencer confirmed that the air flights over the Super Bowl match represent practical training for the aircraft crews and help improve their efficiency, without additional costs to taxpayers, pointing out that the flight demonstrates the Air Force's ability to simulate realistic scenarios.
To complete the air formation, "F-15" aircraft were chosen from the Fresno Air National Guard Base in California," she expressed the Air Force Department's gratitude for the National Guard's participation in the mission.
The planners indicated that the air show accompanies the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, serving as a symbol of the strength of the American Air Force and its ability to perform at the highest levels.
