In an ever-evolving landscape of aerial combat and technological advancement, the U.S. Air Force is propelling its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program forward, with Lockheed Martin emerging as a frontrunner.
The defense giant, renowned for its F-22 and F-35 fighters, is well-positioned to lead the development of a sixth-generation manned aircraft.
This project is part of a broader “systems of systems” strategy, set to redefine the USAF’s modernization and combat capabilities.
The consolidation of the U.S. defense industry has seen the aircraft manufacturing arena dominated by three primary companies: Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.
With the latter spearheading the B-21 Raider and Boeing updating the B-52 Stratofortress, Lockheed Martin seems to be leading the race for NGAD with its pioneering history in stealth and fighter technology.
Lockheed Martin’s legacy includes the first fifth-generation fighter, the F-22 Raptor, and the F-35 Lightning II, which despite its high operating costs, has become one of the most widely operated fighters globally.
As noted by Alex Hollings, “despite a high operating cost, the F-35 has become one of the most widely operated fighters on the planet, and high volume has a way of bringing down costs.” This trend of cost reduction through mass production could significantly influence the economic feasibility of the NGAD program.
The Department of the Air Force has plans to acquire approximately 200 NGAD fighters, designed to operate alongside an upgraded fleet of Block 4 F-35s and a sizeable squadron of AI-enabled drone wingmen.
This approach aims to create an affordable, massive force multiplier that can tackle pilot shortages and enhance combat capabilities.
The ambitious scope of NGAD also includes revolutionary advancements in stealth technology, next-level radar systems, adaptive cycle engines, and an arsenal of kinetic and directed energy weapons.
Beyond the aircraft themselves, the NGAD program encompasses a next-generation adaptive propulsion (NGAP) initiative, involving industry giants such as Pratt & Whitney, General Electric, and Northrop Grumman.
This will focus on producing engines that deliver improved survivability, fuel efficiency, and the power necessary for future air dominance.
The NGAD fighter jet, valued at approximately $300 million per aircraft, is envisioned to undertake counter-air missions, striking both air and ground targets to ensure air superiority. Its exact design and specifications remain under wraps, highlighting the secretive and highly classified nature of this program.
What’s clear, though, is the USAF’s commitment to modernizing its fleet with advanced fighters and unmanned systems capable of ensuring the United States maintains its air superiority into the future.
The strategic vision for NGAD reaches far beyond just another aircraft; it represents a comprehensive combat environment that integrates manned fighters, unmanned collaborative combat aircraft (CCAs), and advanced command and control systems.
– Lockheed Martin Made the F-22 and F-35 Possible. Why They Will Build NGAD, The National Interest
– US Air Force NGAD Fighter Program Goes into High Gear After 2024 Selection, NextBigFuture.com
– Next Generation Air Dominance Programme, US, Airforce Technology