President Trump Announces Americas Next Gen F-47 Fighter Jets

“Nothing in the world comes even close, and it’ll be known as F-47.” President Trump says today at the White House.

President Donald Trump announced the new fighter jet, the F-47 today at the White house.

Trump claimed that this advanced aircraft would be “the greatest fighter jet the world has ever seen,” boasting unmatched speed, stealth capabilities, and firepower.

He asserted that the F-47 would solidify American military dominance for decades to come, though he provided little concrete detail about the jet’s specifications or timeline for production.

Boeing wins NGAD fighter contract, designates it F-47

On March 20, 2025, General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, announced that the service is reevaluating its approach to the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program due to evolving strategic challenges and fiscal constraints.

Originally envisioned as a sixth-generation fighter to ensure air superiority, NGAD’s rising costs and the shifting global threat landscape—marked by advanced adversary capabilities and the need for affordable, scalable solutions—have prompted a reassessment.

Allvin emphasized that the Air Force remains committed to air dominance but is exploring innovative, cost-effective alternatives to the traditional fighter jet model, such as leveraging existing technologies or rethinking acquisition strategies.

This pivot aims to balance capability with affordability while adapting to a dynamic security environment, with further details to be refined as the service collaborates with industry and stakeholders.

Today on March 31st, 2025 President Donald Trump officially announced that Boeing has been awarded the contract for the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance future fighter jet, known as NGAD.

What is NGAD?

The new Air Dominance (NGAD) program, securing the contract to develop the new F-47 fighter aircraft. This new designation clearly positions the F-47 as the successor to the F-22 and F-35 fighters which were developed by rival Lockheed Martin.

Details on NGAD include its integration into a “family of systems” approach, involving advanced sensors, weaponry, and technology for connectivity with other platforms like satellites. The program involves collaboration with other contractors like General Atomics and Anduril, who are developing combat drones to act as wingmen to both the F-35 and the future F-47. The Air Force has emphasized NGAD’s role in countering advanced adversaries, particularly highlighting China’s positions in this sector.

Northrop Grumman had previously withdrawn from the competition, leaving Boeing and Lockheed Martin as the primary contenders. However, Lockheed Martin faced setbacks, not only failing to secure the NGAD contract but also missing out on the U.S. Navy’s F/A-XX program, leaving it without a new fighter initiative beyond the F-35. This situation suggests that Boeing might potentially gain contracts for both the major sixth-generation fighter programs, reminiscent of Lockheed Martin’s success with both the F-22 and F-35.

America ordered 200 NGAD’s so far. Each NGAD will fly with 2 CCA’s. This means instead of an enemy fighter dog fighting 1 vs 1, it will be 1 vs 3.

This sixth-generation fighter, designated the F-47, will be part of a new system called NGAD.

The U.S. Air Force is currently developing the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program to replace the F-35. NGAD is envisioned as a “family of systems” rather than a single aircraft, with a sixth-generation crewed fighter at its core, supported by uncrewed collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), or drone planes, often referred to as “loyal wingmen.”

The NGAD program has been a competitive field, with Lockheed Martin and Boeing as the final contenders after Northrop Grumman opted out as a prime contractor. The contract awarded to Boeing underlines a strategic move to diversify the U.S. aerospace industry’s production capabilities, enhancing competition and potentially the defense industrial base’s capacity. Despite recent struggles at Boeing, including issues with its civilian aircraft programs, this contract represents a critical opportunity for the company to prove its defense sector capabilities.

Details on NGAD include its integration into a “family of systems” approach, involving advanced sensors, weaponry, and technology for connectivity with other platforms like satellites. The program involves collaboration with other contractors like General Atomics and Anduril, who are developing combat drones to act as wingmen to both the F-35 and the future F-47. The Air Force has emphasized NGAD’s role in countering advanced adversaries, particularly highlighting China’s positions in this sector.

The development contract with Boeing is structured as a cost-plus incentive fee, allowing for flexibility in development costs while tying contractor performance to financial incentives. This approach mirrors that used for Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin stressed NGAD’s technological advancements and its strategic importance in maintaining air dominance. The contract also includes options for initial low-rate production, with an eye towards reducing costs and making the NGAD more adaptable to future threats than its predecessors. However, specifics on the jet’s price and production specifics remain undisclosed due to the classified nature of the technology involved.

CCA – Collaborative Combat Aircraft

America gas ordered 1000 CCA’s so far. Each NGAD will fly in formation with 2 CCA’s.

Boasting 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and a fleet of nearly 1,300 fighter jets, the U.S. military can deploy airpower to any conflict zone on the planet within less than 24 hours. This formidable combination of carrier strike groups and advanced aircraft ensures that the U.S. Air Force can project its wings across the globe at a moment’s notice, ready to dominate the skies wherever tensions flare.

Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) represent a bold leap in modern aerial warfare, designed to work alongside manned fighter jets as autonomous or semi-autonomous wingmen.

These unmanned systems, developed under programs like the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative, are envisioned as force multipliers—capable of carrying out tasks like reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or even direct strikes, all while keeping human pilots out of harm’s way. Unlike traditional drones, CCAs are built for high-intensity combat, boasting advanced AI, stealth features, and the ability to swarm or coordinate with manned aircraft in real time. Picture an F-35 leading a pack of these sleek, lethal machines into battle, sharing data and adapting tactics on the fly—it’s a game-changer that blends human ingenuity with robotic precision.

The appeal of CCAs lies in their versatility and cost-effectiveness. They’re not meant to replace piloted jets but to amplify them, taking on the riskiest missions—like penetrating enemy air defenses—while keeping the pricey, human-flown assets safer. For example, a CCA could jam radar or drop precision munitions, then sacrifice itself if needed, all at a fraction of the cost of a manned fighter like the F-22. Development is racing ahead, with companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman testing prototypes that promise speed, stealth, and adaptability. As militaries worldwide eye this tech, CCAs could redefine air combat, turning lone fighters into commanders of their own mini-air forces—ushering in an era where the sky buzzes with intelligent, expendable allies.

Military experts review CCA in real life uses.

This advanced platform is designed to ensure air superiority in highly contested environments, succeeding the F-22, which entered service in 2005 and is expected to begin retiring in the 2030s due to aging technology and evolving threats. While specific details about NGAD remain classified, it aims to incorporate cutting-edge stealth, advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and increased range and payload capabilities to address modern challenges, such as those posed by adversaries like China.

replace the F-22 Raptor and features advanced stealth technology, making it nearly invisible to radar. The jet will operate alongside autonomous drone wingmen, enhancing its combat capabilities.

Trump praised the F-47’s unmatched capabilities, stating that it surpasses all past and present fighter jets in speed, maneuverability, and payload capacity. The development of the F-47 has been a long-term project, with extensive testing already conducted. The President highlighted the strategic advantage this jet provides, claiming it as a game-changer in aerial warfare.

The competition for the NGAD contract was primarily between Lockheed Martin and Boeing, following Northrop Grumman’s decision not to compete as a prime contractor. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin emphasized the F-47’s readiness and technological advancements, asserting that despite its high development costs, it represents a significant leap in air superiority. He noted that experimental flights have logged hundreds of hours, showcasing the jet’s maturity despite its cost issues, which at one point threatened the program’s continuation.

While Trump was optimistic about the F-47’s future, he left open the possibility of exporting modified versions to allies while acknowledging potential changes in geopolitical alliances. The pricing of NGAD remains classified, as it would reveal sensitive details about the jet. However, costs were a concern, with initial estimates presenting a hefty price tag that could have jeopardized the program. Allvin also mentioned that the F-47 is expected to be more cost-effective than its predecessor, the F-22, over the long term.

The need for a new tactical jet arises from the growing demands of modern warfare, emphasizing advanced capabilities for speed, stealth, and situational awareness. This new jet is anticipated to push the boundaries of current technology, integrating next-generation systems that enhance electronic attack capabilities and countermeasures, preparing the U.S. Air Force to meet evolving threats efficiently.

Details on the aircraft’s specifications are still sparse, but it’s anticipated that the jet will incorporate advanced materials to enhance stealth characteristics, reducing radar cross-section significantly. This would make the jet less detectable by enemy sensors. Moreover, the integration of high-powered electronic warfare systems would allow it to disrupt enemy communications and radar operations, providing a tactical advantage in electronic warfare scenarios. These advances would be critical in scenarios where air superiority is contested by adversaries with sophisticated anti-aircraft technology.

The selection of Boeing over other competitors also speaks to the company’s track record of delivering on complex military projects. The new jet program is likely to feature a mix of traditional propulsion and next-generation technology, aiming for superior performance metrics like higher subsonic speeds and improved fuel efficiency. This would not only extend the aircraft’s operational range but also its time on station, allowing for longer mission durations without refueling, thereby enhancing mission flexibility and endurance in sustained combat operations.

While Boeing’s experience gives it an edge, the success of this project hinges on its ability to meet the stringent requirements set by the Air Force, particularly in terms of cost, schedule, and performance. The Air Force’s decision reflects a desire to transition towards a more capability-centric approach, focusing on future warfare needs over traditional fighter jet designs. As the landscape of military aviation shifts towards unmanned systems, this could very well be the last opportunity for manned tactical jets to be developed, making this project monumental not just for Boeing but for the future of air combat technology.

In the broader context of U.S. military aviation, the recent developments mean that Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman might each be working on significant fighter programs. Boeing would develop the F-47, Lockheed Martin would continue with enhanced versions of the F-35, and Northrop Grumman, already busy with the B-21 Raider, would likely lead the F/A-XX program. The Air Force seemed wary of Lockheed Martin’s near monopoly in fifth-generation fighters, which had sparked debate over industry diversity in fighter development. Boeing, lacking experience with fifth-generation fighters since its unsuccessful F-32 bid in 2000, has relied on global sales of the venerable F-15 and has sustained its fighter division through sales of the F/A-18 Super Hornet.

The decision to proceed with the F-47 came after a period of uncertainty regarding the NGAD program’s future, driven by concerns about its staggering financial implications. Developing the NGAD fighter alone would cost over $20 billion, suggesting a unit operational cost that could exceed $1 billion over each aircraft’s lifetime. With the Air Force’s budget already stretched thin across various critical modernization and procurement projects like the F-35, F-15EX, Sentinel missile, and B-21 bomber, there are doubts about the program’s affordability, potentially leading to the development of a lighter, less costly version of the F-47.

Global developments such as China’s unveiling of two sixth-generation fighter prototypes in late 2024 might be influencing the urgency to advance the NGAD program. The apparent acceleration in Chinese military aviation advancements could be a catalyst for increased U.S. Air Force funding for its own sixth-generation fighter development, aiming to keep pace with or overtake China’s expected fielding of such technology in the early 2030s, with the U.S. expected to follow later in the decade.

20% Less Lethal: How the U.S. Dials Down Fighter Jets for Allies

When the United States sells fighter jets to foreign nations, it’s a strategic move that balances military cooperation with national security interests. One way this balance is maintained is by subtly reducing the performance capabilities of these aircraft—often by about 20%—compared to the versions used by the U.S. military. This isn’t advertised, but it’s an open secret in defense circles.

For instance, jets like the F-16 or F-15, when exported, might have their radar range slightly curtailed, electronic warfare systems simplified, or engine thrust dialed back. The goal is to ensure that allies get reliable, effective hardware—capable enough to defend their interests—but not so advanced that they could pose a serious threat to U.S. forces if relations sour or the tech falls into unfriendly hands.

This “toning down” process is a mix of hardware tweaks and software restrictions. On the hardware side, manufacturers might install less powerful engines or downgrade sensor suites, while software limits can cap things like range, sight, radar, missile targeting precision or data-sharing capabilities.

Take the F-35, for example: export versions often come with modified avionics to restrict access to classified systems, ensuring that even close partners don’t get the full suite of stealth or networking features. It’s a pragmatic compromise—allies still get a top-tier jet, but one that’s just shy of the cutting edge reserved for domestic use. This practice reflects a broader philosophy: arm your friends, but always keep an ace up your sleeve.

The specifics of the new jet program remain somewhat under wraps, as Trump’s presentation was more about setting a stage of anticipation rather than detailing technical specifications. However, his comments hinted at advanced stealth capabilities, superior maneuverability, and unmatched armament systems, suggesting that this new aircraft could surpass international competitors like Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 or China’s Chengdu J-20 in performance. The President’s approach was possibly designed to keep adversaries guessing while creating a buzz within the military technology community and the public.

Accompanying the President was Pete Hegseth, whose presence was intended to reinforce the message of American exceptionalism and military might to a wider audience. Hegseth, a known advocate for strong defense policies, used his platform to commend the initiative. His appearance alongside military figures was symbolic, aligning media narratives with the administration’s focus on bolstering national security through cutting-edge technology. This move indicates a strategic use of media to promote national defense policies and could be seen as an effort to build public support for increased military spending.

The President’s announcement of this new program, though light on technical details, has reignited discussions on the balance between military investments and domestic spending. Critics might argue that such grandiose projects might divert funds from other critical needs, but supporters see it as a necessary advancement in keeping the U.S. military’s technological edge. With the involvement of high-profile figures and the media, the message is clear: the Trump administration is committed to maintaining, if not enhancing, American military supremacy through innovative and unprecedented technological advancements.

A Look Into the New F47 Canards

The F-47 Next Generation fighter, a concept developed by Lockheed Martin, boasts a design that includes canard foreplanes, a feature not typically associated with high stealth capabilities. Stealth technology in modern military aircraft usually involves minimizing radar cross-sections, which canards might theoretically increase due to their forward-facing surfaces that can reflect radar waves back to the emitter. The inclusion of canards on the F-47 suggests Lockheed Martin might be exploring a new approach to balancing stealth with other performance attributes like agility and control at high angles of attack.

These canards, positioned at the front of the fuselage, could offer several aerodynamic benefits despite the stealth compromise. Canards are known to enhance lift and control during high-gravity turns, providing the pilot with better handling qualities and potentially allowing for supermaneuverability. This design choice indicates a possible shift in military aviation where the traditional emphasis on radar invisibility might be giving way to a blend of stealth with enhanced agility, perhaps reflecting changes in how air superiority might be contested in future conflicts.

The stealth design philosophy for fighter jets has historically aimed at creating aircraft that are virtually invisible to radar, infrared, and other detection methods. However, the F-47’s incorporation of canards hints at a reassessment of what stealth means in modern warfare. It suggests that the military is considering scenarios where traditional stealth might not be as critical, or where other factors like maneuverability could play a more decisive role in aerial engagements.

Speculation around the F-47’s broader design implications points to Lockheed Martin possibly responding to evolving threats or operational requirements. This could include countering advanced enemy sensors and short-range engagements where stealth might be less effective, or preparing for dogfights in environments where electronic warfare plays a larger role. By experimenting with canards, Lockheed Martin might be pioneering a fighter jet that sacrifices some degree of stealth to gain a tactical edge in highly dynamic combat situations, marking a potential shift in the future of combat aircraft design.