Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the FB-22 Strike Raptor in Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown. This beast of an aircraft is a fan favorite, known for its versatility and sheer power. Whether you're a seasoned Ace Combat pilot or just starting, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to master the FB-22. We’ll cover its strengths, weaknesses, optimal loadouts, and some killer strategies to dominate the skies. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the FB-22 Strike Raptor

Let's kick things off with a general overview of the FB-22 Strike Raptor. In Ace Combat 7, the FB-22 is classified as a multirole fighter, meaning it’s incredibly adaptable to various combat scenarios. Unlike dedicated air-to-air or air-to-ground aircraft, the FB-22 strikes a balance, making it a formidable opponent in any situation. This adaptability comes from its advanced avionics, powerful engines, and the ability to equip a wide array of special weapons.

The FB-22's design is rooted in the real-world Lockheed Martin FB-22 concept, which aimed to create a fighter-bomber variant of the F-22 Raptor. Although the real-life project never came to fruition, Ace Combat 7 brings this concept to life, showcasing its potential. In the game, the FB-22 boasts impressive speed, maneuverability, and a substantial payload capacity. This allows it to engage in dogfights, deliver precision strikes against ground targets, and provide support for allied forces, all in a single mission. For players who appreciate flexibility and want an aircraft that can handle anything thrown at it, the FB-22 is an excellent choice.

One of the key features of the FB-22 is its ability to carry a diverse range of special weapons. This includes air-to-air missiles like the long-range SAAM (Semi-Active Air-to-Air Missile) and the multi-target QAAM (Quick Maneuver Air-to-Air Missile), as well as air-to-ground ordnance such as the stand-off dispenser SOD and guided bombs. This versatility allows pilots to tailor their loadout to the specific demands of each mission, ensuring they are always prepared for any eventuality. Whether you're facing a squadron of enemy fighters or a heavily fortified ground base, the FB-22 can be equipped to handle the threat effectively. Its multirole capabilities make it a valuable asset in any operation, providing a tactical advantage that few other aircraft can match.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses

Alright, let's break down the FB-22's strengths and weaknesses to give you a clearer picture of where it excels and where you might need to compensate.

Strengths

• Versatility: As we've already touched on, the FB-22's versatility is its greatest strength. It can effectively engage both air and ground targets, making it suitable for a wide range of missions. This adaptability means you don't have to switch aircraft constantly, saving you valuable time and resources.
• Weapon Loadout: The FB-22 can carry a substantial amount of special weapons, allowing you to pack a serious punch. Whether you prefer long-range engagements with SAAMs or close-quarters combat with QAAMs, the FB-22 has you covered. The diverse selection of air-to-ground weapons also means you can tackle any ground target, from tanks to bunkers.
• Speed and Maneuverability: While not the fastest or most maneuverable aircraft in the game, the FB-22 strikes a good balance. It's quick enough to evade enemy fire and agile enough to engage in dogfights effectively. This combination of speed and maneuverability makes it a tough target to hit and allows you to stay in the fight longer.

Weaknesses

• Not a Specialist: While its versatility is a strength, it also means the FB-22 isn't a specialist in any particular area. Dedicated air-to-air fighters like the F-22A may outperform it in dogfights, and dedicated attackers like the A-10 may be more effective against heavily armored ground targets. You'll need to play smart and leverage its strengths to overcome these limitations.
• Susceptible to Missiles: Like most aircraft in Ace Combat 7, the FB-22 is vulnerable to missile fire. Its stealth capabilities are not as pronounced as some other aircraft, meaning you'll need to rely on flares and evasive maneuvers to avoid getting hit. Awareness of your surroundings and smart use of countermeasures are crucial for survival.
• Cost: The FB-22 can be relatively expensive to unlock and upgrade, especially for new players. This means you'll need to grind credits and MRP to fully realize its potential. However, the investment is well worth it if you're looking for a versatile and powerful aircraft that can handle any challenge.

Recommended Loadouts

Choosing the right loadout for your FB-22 can make all the difference in combat. Here are a few recommended loadouts for different scenarios:

Air-to-Air Dominance

• Missiles: QAAM (Quick Maneuver Air-to-Air Missile), SAAM (Semi-Active Air-to-Air Missile)
• Description: This loadout focuses on maximizing your air-to-air combat capabilities. QAAMs are excellent for close-range engagements, while SAAMs allow you to engage targets at longer distances. Use QAAMs to quickly dispatch maneuvering enemies and SAAMs to pick off targets before they get too close. This combination provides a versatile and effective air-to-air loadout, perfect for missions where you'll be facing numerous enemy fighters.

Ground Attack

• Missiles: SOD (Stand-Off Dispenser), LASM (Long-Range Air-to-Surface Missile)
• Description: This loadout is designed for destroying ground targets from a safe distance. SODs are effective against clustered targets, while LASMs can take out heavily armored targets with precision. Use SODs to clear out groups of enemies and LASMs to eliminate high-value targets like tanks and bunkers. This loadout is ideal for missions where you need to destroy multiple ground targets while avoiding enemy air patrols.

Multirole

• Missiles: QAAM (Quick Maneuver Air-to-Air Missile), LASM (Long-Range Air-to-Surface Missile)
• Description: This loadout provides a balanced approach, allowing you to engage both air and ground targets effectively. QAAMs are great for defending yourself against enemy fighters, while LASMs can take out ground targets as needed. Use QAAMs to fend off aerial threats and LASMs to eliminate key ground targets. This loadout is perfect for missions where you'll be facing a mix of air and ground enemies, providing the flexibility to adapt to any situation.

Strategies and Tactics

Now that you know the FB-22's strengths, weaknesses, and recommended loadouts, let's talk about some strategies and tactics to help you dominate the skies.

Air-to-Air Combat

• Maintain Awareness: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your radar. Knowing where enemy fighters are located is crucial for avoiding ambushes and positioning yourself for attack. Use your radar to track enemy movements and anticipate their next move.
• Use Evasive Maneuvers: The FB-22 is agile, but it's not invincible. Use evasive maneuvers like barrel rolls and Immelmann turns to avoid missile fire and shake off enemy fighters. Mastering these maneuvers will make you a much harder target to hit and allow you to stay in the fight longer.
• Exploit QAAMs: QAAMs are incredibly effective in close-quarters combat. Use them to quickly dispatch maneuvering enemies and gain the upper hand in dogfights. Their high tracking ability and quick reload time make them a deadly weapon in the hands of a skilled pilot.

Ground Attack

• Stay at Range: When attacking ground targets, try to stay at range to avoid enemy fire. Use your long-range missiles like SODs and LASMs to take out targets from a safe distance. This will reduce your exposure to enemy defenses and minimize the risk of getting shot down.
• Prioritize Targets: Focus on eliminating high-value targets first, such as SAM sites and radar installations. Taking out these targets will make it easier to attack other ground units without being detected or shot down. Prioritizing your targets will also help you complete the mission more efficiently.
• Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Use the terrain to your advantage by flying low to avoid radar detection and using hills and valleys to break line of sight with enemy units. This will make it harder for enemies to target you and allow you to approach your targets undetected.

General Tips

• Upgrade Wisely: Invest in upgrades that enhance the FB-22's strengths and compensate for its weaknesses. Upgrading its speed, maneuverability, and weapon capacity can make a significant difference in combat. Focus on upgrades that align with your preferred playstyle and the types of missions you typically fly.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you fly the FB-22, the better you'll become at using it effectively. Practice different loadouts and tactics in free missions to hone your skills and develop your own strategies. Experimentation is key to finding what works best for you.
• Stay Flexible: Adapt your tactics to the situation and be willing to change your loadout if necessary. The FB-22's versatility allows you to adjust to different combat scenarios, so take advantage of it. Being flexible and adaptable will make you a more effective pilot and increase your chances of success.

Final Thoughts

The FB-22 Strike Raptor is a fantastic aircraft in Ace Combat 7, offering a blend of versatility, firepower, and agility. While it may not be the best in any single category, its ability to handle both air and ground threats makes it a valuable asset in any pilot's hangar. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, choosing the right loadouts, and employing effective strategies, you can master the FB-22 and dominate the skies. So go out there, pilot, and show them what the Strike Raptor can do! Happy flying!