The NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) project, which was initiated by the US Air Force in 2015 to replace the 5th generation F-22A Raptor air superiority aircraft, is designed to create a 6th generation aircraft (the PCA, or Penetrating Counter Air) that will be paired with “loyal wingman” drones known as CCA (Collaborative Combat Aircraft) and connected effectors.
Nevertheless, the NGAD was recently placed on hold, as noted by Frank Kendall, the Secretary of the US Air Force, in July, despite the fact that a demonstrator flew for the first time in 2020. One reason for this decision is the project’s cost, which is potentially three times higher than that of the F-35. This is particularly true given that other priorities, such as the development of the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile and the B-21 Raider strategic bomber, require financing. Furthermore, it is imperative to align it with both present and future threats.
Kendall explained at the Farnborough Airshow in the UK that the NGAD was designed prior to the introduction of the CCA, the threat escalation, and the current affordability challenges that the US is currently facing.
Even though Kendall assured that the US still intends to “produce a sixth-generation manned aircraft,” will the NGAD see the light of day?
Will the NGAD be realized, despite Kendall’s assurance that the United States continues to “produce a sixth-generation manned aircraft?”
General David W. Allvin, the Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force, did not provide unwavering support for the project in June. He said that future budget constraints will force him to make “many choices”. Air & Space Forces Magazine observed that he did not characterize the NGAD as a critical component.
It appears that the US Air Force is placing a wager on an alternative concept, as noted by The Aviationist. This is consistent with the most recent edition of the Global Air Chiefs Conference, which was organized by the Air and Space Power Association. Additionally, the Royal Aeronautical Society recently published a report on this.
General Allvin did not expressly reference the NGAD during his speech. Nevertheless, he recommended that it would be more advantageous to create systems that can “adapt” rather than “endure.” Otherwise, an air force may become reliant on platforms that are based on antiquated concepts as a result of technology growth and the emergence of new threats.
To elucidate his point, the US Air Force Chief unveiled an image of a light fighter jet concept with lines that are nearly identical to those of the F-35A. This image, as noted by The Aviationist, is likely an unofficial representation of a fighter that could be mass-produced and outfitted with stealth capabilities.
It appears that General Allvin is interested in reverting to the 1950s approach, which resulted in the development of the “Century Series Fighters.” At that time, the concept was to create a new combat aircraft that would be in service for a relatively brief period, such as five, six, or even seven years. This reasoning enabled the more rapid incorporation of technological advancements, which in turn resulted in more effective aircraft in the face of modern threats.
In the present day, digital engineering, open systems architecture, or even novel manufacturing processes (such as 3D printing).
Additionally, General Allvin underscored the concept of a “system-centered force” as opposed to a “platform-centered force.”
In any case, the US Air Force has previously engaged in discussions regarding the development of a new light fighter. General Charles Q. Brown, who was the Chief of Staff at the time, indicated a desire to replace the F-16 with 4.5-generation fighter jets in 2021. These jets would have capabilities that fell between the F-16 and the F-35. He explained that he wanted to be able to build something new and different that is not the F-16 but has some of its capabilities.
Meanwhile, the F-22A Raptor is expected to continue in service for an extended period of time, despite the fact that its retirement was originally scheduled for 2030. It is presently undergoing a modernization program to acquire a number of “classified sensor systems,” including a new infrared search and track system (IRST) that is designed to detect stealth aircraft.
The US Air Force’s executive director of advanced combat aircraft programs, General Jason D. Voorheis, discussed the F-22’s retirement at a conference in Dayton, Ohio, in July. He said he didn’t have a specific date to share. He said the US is extremely focused on its modernization to maintain its air superiority capabilities in a highly contested environment for as long as necessary.