SOURCE: AFI
The recent unveiling by China of its sixth-generation fighter jets and advanced fighter bombers has significantly escalated the global aerial arms race, putting considerable pressure on the United States to accelerate its own next-generation aircraft initiatives. Amidst this, the U.S. Air Force’s (USAF) Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program stands as a critical initiative aimed at maintaining air superiority into the mid-21st century.
The NGAD program is not just about developing a new fighter jet; it’s envisioned as a “family of systems.” This approach includes a manned sixth-generation fighter jet, complemented by unmanned collaborative combat aircraft (CCAs), and advanced systems for command, control, communication, and intelligence. This holistic strategy is designed to create a network of capabilities rather than relying on a single platform, a shift from traditional aircraft development to a more integrated, multi-faceted approach. The goal is to deliver unmatched air superiority in highly contested environments, with initial operational capabilities expected in the 2030s.
China’s public demonstration of its 6th generation fighter concepts has sent ripples across military aviation communities. These aircraft are purportedly designed with capabilities that could potentially surpass current U.S. technology in stealth, speed, and integration with unmanned systems. Such advancements signal China’s intent to challenge U.S. air dominance, particularly in critical regions like the Indo-Pacific. This development has prompted a reevaluation of American military aviation strategies, pushing the USAF to ensure NGAD not only meets but exceeds these emerging threats.
While the USAF moves forward with NGAD, Europe isn’t standing still. The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), involving the UK, Japan, and Italy, alongside the Franco-German-led Future Combat Air System (FCAS), are both indicative of a broader global push towards sixth-generation capabilities. These programs underscore the trend towards international collaboration in defense technology, a strategy that has proven effective in the past with programs like the F-35. However, unlike the F-35, which had a broad coalition of international partners, NGAD currently lacks such a consortium, potentially limiting its scope in terms of shared technological development, cost distribution, and geopolitical influence.