The F-22A is the first fighter that can handle a sustained 9.5 g turn. So can the pilots—thanks to a new combination of flight gear. Raptor pilots wear the Combat Edge flight suit, as well as new G-pants, that give them extra endurance under the most punishing forces. The flying gear applies pressure to the body under high-g stress, keeping uninterrupted blood flow to the brain. Pilots still have to do the M-1 maneuver—grunting and straining the diaphragm—to aid tolerance.
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.