Next Generation Air Dominance

The Boeing F/A-XX is the only sixth generation jet fighter currently known to be proposed

Next Generation Air Dominance^[1] is a development and acquisition program for a future sixth generation air superiority fighter to replace the US Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet beginning in 2025. It is planned to incorporate sixth generation stealth capability. The aircraft is to be operated with or without a pilot, depending on the role. The new fighter is to perform strike, air superiority, ground support, precision bombing and reconnaissance roles.^[2] Only Boeing is known to have interest in the program though Northrop Grumman is known to be developing a carrier-based aircraft known as the X-47B. A 1/16 scale model shown at the Navy League Sea Air Space Exposition 2010 shows a 'Flying wing' design with no vertical tails and twin engines.^[2]

In late 2011, the Navy plans to analyze alternatives for the NGAD program with a technology demonstration phase beginning in 2013.^[1] One of the alternatives being considered is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, which would double the Navy's purchase of that aircraft.^[3]

References

1. ^ ^{a b} Trimble, Stephen (2010-5), "Boeing plots return to next-generation fighter market", The Dewline, Flight Global, http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2010/05/boeing-plots-return-to-next-ge.html .
2. ^ ^{a b} Boeing displays manned F/A-XX concept jet, Flight Global, 2009-7-9, http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/07/09/329472/boeing-displays-manned-fa-xx-concept-jet.html .
3. ^ "F-35 emerges as candidate to replace 500 Super Hornets."