The planned Super Bowl LX military flyover will not include F-22 Raptors due to pressing operational demands, a key planner confirmed. Originally, the Air Force intended to feature the F-22 alongside Navy F-35Cs to highlight fifth-generation fighter capabilities from both services.
Katie Spencer, Sports Outreach Program manager for the Department of the Air Force, explained that increased operational tempo led to the F-22s being reassigned to missions. She emphasized that such adjustments reflect how military priorities evolve in real time.
The cancellation surprised some, as the commemorative flight suit patch showed silhouettes of the F-22, indicating their initial inclusion. Spencer clarified that this was not an oversight but a result of shifting mission requirements that took precedence.
Notably, recent operational deployments highlight the F-22’s ongoing role. In June, F-22s supported Operation Midnight Hammer, a B-2 Spirit bomber-led campaign targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. Earlier, in January and February, U.S. aircraft engaged ISIS targets in Syria during Operation Hawkeye Strike.
Despite the absence of the F-22s, the remaining aircraft will deliver an impressive aerial display. The flyover formation includes Air Force B-1 Lancer bombers, F-15C Eagles, Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets, and F-35C Lightning fighters. This combination aims to represent a broad spectrum of American airpower.
Spencer noted that the flyover also acts as essential training for aircrews and maintenance crews, serving as a “time-over-target” exercise. This dual purpose enables teams to practice real-world scenarios without incurring extra taxpayer cost.
To fill the gap left by the F-22s, F-15s from Fresno Air National Guard Base were incorporated into the formation late in the planning process. “Our Guard members have stepped in to fill that role,” Spencer said, expressing gratitude for their participation.
The flyover marks the first joint effort between the Air Force and Navy for the Super Bowl, reflecting a unique collaboration commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Organizers intended the formation to be both symbolically significant and highly dynamic for the crowd.
The B-1 Lancer bomber “the Bone” was chosen to lead the display, embodying the power of America’s bomber fleet and the concept of sustained time over target. Navy jets like the F/A-18 and the carrier-capable F-35C highlight iconic and modern airpower elements.
On the ground, a joint military color guard from the Military District of Washington, featuring representatives from all branches including Space Force, will provide ceremonial honors. This team is recognized for unparalleled precision and national representation.
The extensive planning process spanned nearly a year and involved close coordination with the NFL, NBC, and the Federal Aviation Administration. The venue, Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, allows for a larger and louder formation due to its open-air design.
Spencer concluded by promising fans a memorable experience, one that combines visual grandeur with the profound sound of military jets. “They’re going to feel the sound of freedom in the pits of their soul when this formation flies over,” she said, underscoring the event’s patriotic significance.
Read more at: www.militarytimes.com-
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