Even though the F-22A has limited air to ground capability, it is still the best air to air weapon in the world. The F-15C is also only a single role fighter and getting old very fast. The life support system issues are being fixed according to a friend stationed out at Langley. Even a single F-22 with a external Sniper targeting pod is much stealthier than a F-16 or FA-18, despite only carrying 2,000 lbs of bombs it could do the mission without the support of SEAD or EW aircraft. Carrying GPS weapons doesn't require a targeting pod anyways if the target has already been identified. These capabilities may not be enough to save the F-22's reputayion as a multirole fighter, but as an air superiority fighter it is unmatched. Too much is being expected from the F-35 and tests are showing this, carrying enough weapons as an F-16 or F/A-18 requires it to carry bombs externally which compromises its stealth, and other tests have shown it is inferior to the ancient F-15 and SU-27 in the air to air role. What the U.S. needs are more F-22s and upgraded F-16s and F/A-18s instead of the F-35.