MARIETTA, Ga., September 26th, 2011 — Lockheed Martin’s [NYSE: LMT] F-22 Raptor returned to the skies today here in a series of test and production flights, the first since a four-month fleet stand down was lifted on Sept. 19, 2011 by the U.S. Air Force.

Aircraft flown are preparing for delivery to the U.S. Air Force. Specific delivery schedules and flight activities are being aligned in conjunction with customer specifications and testing parameters. F-22 final assembly line schedule was not impacted by the stand down and the team continues to roll out Raptors on time, with final aircraft completing in December 2011.

“It’s exciting to see the F-22 Raptor back in the skies,” said Jeff Babione, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s F-22 program. “We are dedicated to supporting our customer in return-to-flight activities. It takes a strong team to design, build, maintain and operate the Raptor. I’m proud to be part of such a team.”

As the world’s only operational 5th generation fighter, the F-22 Raptors are counted on to project power, deter threats and promote stability around the world. F-22 units also frequently deploy to Kadena Air Base, Japan, and Andersen AFB, Guam, as part of rotational support assignments designed to enhance security in the Pacific theater.

Source and photo: Lockheed Martin