The F-22 Raptor executed its first combat mission since its introduction into the U.S. Air Force fleet as it took part in the first night of bombing of Islamic State militants in Syria.

Air Force Tech Sgt. Russ Scalf offers readers an up close view of the F-22’s trip to Syria with photos of it taxing to the runway, taking off, and refueling with a KC-10 Extender en route to Syria.