Understood. I did not determine any need for the F-22 by Japan or Israel. This was what I read on each country WRT the F-22.
Your statement does bring up an interesting question:
How does the USA justify the NEED for the F-22 (and F-35)?
The USAF/USN requires a new fighter aircraft to replace the F-15A/B/C/D model fighter and a new multi-role fighter to replace the F-16/F/A-18.
The USAF developed the F-22A through the ATF program which can be read about plenty of places online. The need was expected to counter the increasingly capable Soviet Union. Other "requirements" are being discussed now, but unfortunately the USAF has been a bit of a victim of it's own success in my opinion, by dominating so extensively over the past 30-40 years, they are now finding it somewhat difficult to buy the "shiny toys" the "fighter mafia" want for the new generation.
USAF insists in requires 381 F-22 fighters and the Pentagon has stated that 187 is the maximum it will get...
The F-35 is a different kettle of fish for mine. It will replace the bulk of USAF/USN/USNG and USMC inventory, replacing F-16, F/A-18 and the USMC Harrier II's.
These are rapidly wearing out aircraft (particularly the F/A-18) and need urgent replacement. In addition the USA believes LO aircraft are necessary for survival in future years and it's predominant combat aircraft fleets will provide exactly this.