The NGAD sixth-generation stealth fighter is vital for the US military as it could be critical in the current threat environment and supplement the F-35. Modernization of the F-35 and its significance The F-35 could maintain its supremacy well into the 2070s thanks to software upgrades in areas like computing, artificial intelligence (AI), mission systems, weapons, and command and control. However, the requirement for a sixth-generation fighter is imminent.

The F-35 is a versatile fighter with both surveillance and maneuverability capabilities, making it an ideal complement to a sixth-generation stealth fighter like the NGAD. Alternative to the F-22 and collaboration between manned and unmanned aircraft A sixth-generation fighter would succeed the F-22 in terms of air superiority and speed. Advances in this generation will focus on collaboration between manned and unmanned platforms and command and control.

AI-based data link, command and control, and data analysis technology will enable a “family of systems” in which a single manned platform can simultaneously operate multiple drones. Characteristics of the sixth-generation fighter NGAD A sixth-generation fighter like the NGAD will require long-range sensors, precise and accurate targeting data analysis. It will also need the capability to connect with other systems, such as ground command centers, drones, ground vehicles, Navy ships, and satellites.

Speed, maneuverability, and long-range sensors will be crucial, but networking, AI-based high-speed computing, and weapon guidance will distinguish the sixth-generation fighter from its competitors. The urgency of the NGAD in light of current threats The urgent need for the NGAD arises from the presence of fighters such as the Chinese J-20 and J-31 and the Russian Su-57. While there is no evidence that these aircraft are superior to the American F-22 and F-35, their existence drives the necessity to stay ahead of rival powers. China and Russia have a numerical disadvantage in terms of fifth-generation aircraft, but their specific performance characteristics may be unknown, motivating the adoption of innovative or “disruptive” technologies. Summary The NGAD sixth-generation stealth fighter is crucial for maintaining America’s strategic advantage in the current threat environment, serving as a perfect complement to the F-35 and a successor to the F-22.

Key features of this new generation include networking with various systems, artificial intelligence, and collaboration between manned and unmanned platforms. The urgency in the development of the NGAD stems from the emergence of fighters from rival powers such as China and Russia, which drives the need to adopt innovative and disruptive technologies to maintain air superiority.