F/A-22 pilots deployed from Langley AFB, Va., to Utah (DR, 10/17/05) expressed their enthusiasm for the new stealthy fighter to a reporter from the Hampton Roads (Va.) Daily Press, saying they want to dominate every fight. “If I can blow up a threat before he knows I’m here, that’s what I want,” Maj. Chuck Corcoran told the Press. He added, “This plane can go places that an aluminum plane just can’t. With the F-15, we’ll probably both get a shot.” Lt. Col. Jim Hecker agreed, telling the Press, “We want to win every fight 59-0.”
The U.S. military conducted strikes on Iranian targets around the Strait of Hormuz on May 7, as the conflict with Iran flared up again—though officials say the ceasefire remains in effect.