It needs constant aerial pitstops
Source: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson – U.S. Air Force
The F-22 Raptor may be quick, it may be nimble, and it may even be still but that doesn’t negate its need for fuel.
The F-22 can travel approximately 1,500 miles in just one hour, although, the maximum range is 2,000 miles before it needs to refuel. So, how do they gas up in the middle of the sky? Luckily KC-135’s act as in-flight gas stations; These huge vessels bring the F-22 Raptors fuel from above their head and give them the energy they need to keep fighting the good fight.