F-22 RAPTOR RC AIRCRAFT

TECHNICAL CONSTRUCTION GUIDE

PROJECT ID:F22-RAPTOR|STATUS: BLUEPRINT|VERSION: 1.0

Why I Built This

Project motivation and objectives

This started as a stubborn childhood dream I couldn't afford back then. Now I'm giving that kid what he always wanted, but building it myself instead of pulling a perfect toy out of a box.

Part nostalgia, part challenge. The more you fuck around, the more you found out. Simple goal: bring a dream to life with my own hands and watch it soar.

Tools

Required equipment and instruments

Cutting Tools

Utility knife, Scissors, Pliers

Measuring Tools

Ruler, Measuring Tape

Assembly Tools

Glue gun, Soldering iron, Screwdrivers

Materials

Complete bill of materials

Airframe Materials

MPPF Board
Push Rods
Carbon Fiber Rods
Control Horns
Linkage Stopper
Servo Mounts
5045 Propeller

Adhesives & Finishing

Hot Glue
Super glue
Masking Tape
Spray Paint (Optional)

Electronics

Avionics and control systems

Required Components

ESC (Electronic Speed Controller)
1806/2280kv Brushless Motor
FlySky FS-i6 Transmitter
FlySky FS-iA6 Receiver
9G Servo Motors (x2)
3S 600mAh 40C LiPo Battery

FIG. 1 - Wiring Diagram

Plans

Technical drawings and specifications

FIG. 02 - F-22 Raptor Plans

Download links: Google Drive Folder

CAD Images

3D models and renderings

FIG. 03 - 3D Model View 1

FIG. 04 - 3D Model View 2

FIG. 05 - Front View

FIG. 06 - Side View

FIG. 07 - Top View

FIG. 08 - Layout View

Computer-aided design models and technical renderings of the F-22 Raptor build.

Build Process

Step-by-step construction guide

You can download and see the full guide here: Quick Build F-22 Guide (PDF)

STEP 1: Install the Carbon Wing Spar

FIG. 09 - Carbon Wing Spar Installation

Mask the spar slot on top and bottom of the wing to protect the foam surface.
Test-fit the carbon rod to ensure it slides smoothly into the slot without force.
Mix epoxy thoroughly following the manufacturer's instructions for proper cure.
Pour epoxy into the slot (rod not inserted yet) ensuring even coverage along the entire length.
Insert rod, press down, wipe excess epoxy from the surface immediately with a paper towel.
Remove tape after a few minutes—don't glue the wing to the table! This prevents the epoxy from bonding the wing to your work surface.

STEP 2: Build the Front Fuselage

Align the two front fuse pieces carefully to ensure a proper fit.
Apply epoxy to the joint using an even coat along the mating surfaces.
Press together firmly to create a strong bond.
Keep it straight while curing to avoid any warping or misalignment.
Make sure it's not stuck to the table by using wax paper or a release surface.

FIG. 10 - Front Fuselage Assembly

STEP 3: Install Canopy + Forward Lower Fuse

FIG. 11 - Canopy Installation

Identify canopy (top) and lower fuse (bottom) pieces before installation.
Insert both into their slots on the wing to verify proper fit.
Glue using foam-safe glue to avoid melting the foam material.
Align canopy with wing surface for a flush, aerodynamic finish.
Let glue set completely before handling.

STEP 4: Attach the Bottom Fuselage

Find the small bridging piece that connects the wing and bottom fuselage.
Glue it between wing and bottom-fuse gap to create a solid connection point.
Attach the full bottom fuselage piece to the bridging section.
Center it properly to maintain symmetry.
Leave it floating—alignment gets fixed later during final assembly.

FIG. 12 - Bottom Fuselage

STEP 5: Install Side Engine Intakes

FIG. 13 - Side Engine Intakes

Test-fit both intake pieces to check alignment.
Trim wing slots so intakes can angle inward for proper F-22 aesthetics.
Dry-fit with tape until symmetrical to ensure both sides match.
Glue each intake to wing + bottom fuse for a secure attachment.
Trim tabs protruding through the top for a clean finish.

STEP 6: Install Front Intakes

Test-fit both pieces to verify proper placement.
Trim edges for correct inward angle to match the design.
Align both sides evenly for symmetrical appearance.
Glue in place using foam-safe adhesive.
Let dry completely before moving to the next step.

FIG. 14 - Front Intakes

STEP 7: Mount Vertical Tails

FIG. 15 - Vertical Tail Installation

Insert fins into top slots to check the fit.
Trim foam to allow outward angle for the characteristic F-22 tail cant.
Match angle with the side intakes to maintain consistent geometry.
Glue (epoxy recommended) for maximum strength.
Ensure both fins angle similarly for balanced flight characteristics.

STEP 8: Build & Fit the Hatch

Take hatch piece + scrap foam for reinforcement.
Add supports using scrap pieces to strengthen the hatch.
Choose attachment method: velcro, magnets, tape based on your preference.
Test-fit for snug closure to prevent it from opening in flight.
Ensure easy removal for battery and electronics access.

FIG. 16 - Hatch Assembly

STEP 9: Install Motor Mount

FIG. 17 - Motor Mount

Laminate plywood disc + foam disc with epoxy to create a strong mount.
Align the combined mount on nose area ensuring proper motor alignment.
Glue using epoxy for a permanent, strong bond.
Hold straight while curing to prevent thrust misalignment.
Clean any squeeze-out for a professional finish.

STEP 10: Prepare Tailerons (Elevons)

Bevel hinge edge for free movement to allow full control surface deflection.
Tape-hinge each taileron to the body using clear packing tape.
Sand if the two tailerons touch in the center to prevent binding.
Check full travel range to ensure adequate control authority.
Make sure hinge line is clean for smooth operation.

FIG. 18 - Taileron Setup

STEP 11: Install Servos + Linkages

FIG. 19 - Servo Installation

Cut servo pockets under the wing for recessed servo mounting.
Glue servos above the carbon spar for structural support.
Install control horns on tailerons at the recommended distance from hinge line.
Connect pushrods between servos and control horns.
Ensure smooth, binding-free movement throughout the entire range.

STEP 12: Install Electronics

Mount ESC near airflow path for adequate cooling.
Install receiver inside fuselage cavity protected from elements.
Route servo wires cleanly to avoid interference with moving parts.
Mount motor + prop securely to the motor mount.
Confirm motor spins the correct direction for proper thrust.

FIG. 20 - Electronics Layout

STEP 13: Paint & Finish

FIG. 21 - Painted Aircraft

(Optional) Spray Minwax Poly for foam protection to seal the surface.
Mask edges for clean patterns using painter's tape.
Use foam-safe paint (or test first) to avoid melting the foam.
Spray multiple light coats rather than one heavy coat.
Let everything cure fully before handling or flying.

STEP 14: Set Center of Gravity

CG = 3.25 inches behind wing break for optimal flight characteristics.
Position battery to achieve balance by moving it forward or backward.
Hold plane at CG points with your fingers to test balance.
Adjust until balanced level with no nose-up or nose-down tendency.
Mark battery location for consistent placement before each flight.

FIG. 22 - Center of Gravity

Gallery

Build photos and flight footage

FIG. 23 - Board Cutouts

FIG. 24 - Electronic Assembly

FIG. 24 - Circuit Assembled

FIG. 25 - Complete Setup

FIG. 25 - Simulator Training

FIG. 26 - First Flight

FIG. 27 - Decoration Taping

FIG. 28 - Minden Flight Test

FIG. 29 - Morning Flight

What I Learned

Key takeaways and insights

Lesson 1: Simulation is cheaper compared to real-world testing. (learned that the hard way)

Lesson 2: Take time with the build - dont get too excited and rush.

Lesson 3: Test electronics thoroughly before final assembly. Disassembling is time-consuming.

Lesson 4: Weather plays a significant role in flight performance and safety.

Lesson 5 (most important): Never give up. Crashing is part of it. I literally crashed 7 times before succeeding :D. Find out what's wrong, improvise, forget how much it hurts, and try again.