But SecDef Bob Gates shot the idea down.^*

Gates was right. The F-22 would be as useful in Iraq as tits on a bull.

There is no sophisticated air defense system, no opposing air power, and the aircraft need to get as low as possible in order to minimize collateral damage.

My guess is that the USAF wanted to deploy some Raptors in order to pitch them to Congress as “combat proben”, and Gates was having none of that.

When you also consider the fact that Iran would undoubtedly consider the F-22 being in theater as a prelude to a sneak attack, it would further destabilize the region.

^*Pun completely intended.