The United States has developed a 6th generation stealth fighter with two flight modes
The US military does not even disclose the general tactical and technical characteristics of the new 6th generation fighter. However, it is known that the new combat aircraft must be multi-purpose, capable of conducting air combat and striking ground targets, as well as flying long distances with a significant stock of weapons on board.
The Next Generation Air Dominance Program (NGAD) is a project of the US Air Force to create a family of aircraft systems, including fighters, drones and other platforms.
Pratt & Whitney has announced the completion of a critical evaluation phase of the Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) with the U.S. Air Force as part of the NGAD engine design solution.
“Throughout the development process, we are driving digital transformation at NGAP and changing the user experience to deliver these advanced adaptive engines quickly and efficiently,” said Jill Albertelli, president of Pratt & Whitney’s Military Engine Business.
The next step will be to conduct ground tests of the prototypes to make sure they work as designed before they are incorporated into the prototype aircraft.
“This technology is critical to maintaining air superiority – that’s why Pratt & Whitney has made significant investments in research, development and advanced manufacturing. Continued government funding for the development of sixth-generation powerplants must remain a priority to support the platform’s critical development milestones,” Albertelli added.
According to representatives of RTX Pratt & Whitney, the engine will have the characteristics that will give the NGAD fighter the necessary capabilities to ensure air superiority on the future battlefield.
“NGAP technologies will provide increased survivability, fuel efficiency, and reliable power and thermal management. This is necessary to provide the required range, weapon and sensor capabilities, and survivability that future air dominance platforms will need to meet changing operational requirements,” RTX said.
The program is moving towards operational capabilities. Lockheed Martin and Boeing are involved in the development of the new fighter, while Textron and General Atomics are working on some technologies for the aircraft.
The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is aimed at creating the future US 6th generation stealth fighter. Although little is known about the exact capabilities of the aircraft, the Air Force wants a platform that can operate in both manned and unmanned modes. As technology advances, unmanned aerial systems are becoming more common. The Air Force is not looking for an unmanned aircraft, but something that will work in conjunction with drones.
But these advanced capabilities are expensive. According to the Ministry of Defense, the cost of each NGAD aircraft will be $300 million. But, as the Pentagon says, losing a war is more expensive.
