Head to head, the two jets met and exceeded the expectations of the Advanced Tactical Fighter program. They were both fantastic tech demonstrators and prototypes. The differences between the YF-22 and YF-23 were arguably minute and not superior or inferior enough to define one of the two jets as the clear choice. The 23 was slightly stealthier, but the 22 was slightly more agile. The 23 was a bit faster, but the 22 could carry more internal munitions.

The ultimate decision came down to the logistical, political, and monetary trustworthiness among the two aerospace companies involved, Northrop (YF-23) and Lockheed (YF-22). At the time of the trials and decision in the late 80s early 90s, Northrop was in very hot water politically and legally. They were all over the headlines with controversies related to fraud, mismanagement, falsifying test results of various projects, and budgetary overruns. All of which left a bad taste in the mouths of the DoD/Air Force.

Even though Northrop had provided an excellent airframe for the ATF program, the powers that be were hesitant to grant them further contracts due their battered reputation. They just were not fully convinced Northrop could flesh out the Black Widow project to a full production run while remaining within an acceptable budget window and delivering completed airframes on time.

And so Lockheed was the favored company that won the contract and that is why skies now belong to the Raptor.