WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump announced the development of the F-47, the Pentagon’s next-generation fighter jet, in a statement from the Oval Office.
New Jet Revealed
Trump stated the U.S. Air Force is launching the world’s first sixth-generation fighter, emphasizing its unmatched capabilities.
He revealed an experimental version of the F-47 has been flying for nearly five years in secret tests.
Describing the aircraft, Trump claimed, “It’s unlike anything the world has ever seen.”
This next-generation jet aims to maintain U.S. air superiority against growing threats from China and Russia.
The announcement marks a major step in the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program.
Boeing Wins Contract
Boeing will lead the F-47’s development, beating top aerospace competitors in a rigorous selection process.
Trump confirmed the Air Force carefully evaluated proposals before selecting Boeing as the primary contractor.
The decision follows a delayed Pentagon review initiated last year under former Secretary Frank Kendall.
Officials believe Boeing’s design best aligns with the Air Force’s needs for next-generation air dominance.
This selection sets the stage for advanced fighter technology that will replace older aircraft models.
Program Background
The NGAD program seeks to create an advanced replacement for the aging F-35 Lightning II.
The F-35 program, awarded to Lockheed Martin in 2001, has suffered from massive delays and cost overruns.
Initially estimated at $200 billion, the F-35 program has now exceeded $2 trillion, according to government reports.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently found that military branches plan to reduce F-35 usage.
Many defense experts argue the F-35’s rising costs make it unsustainable for long-term operations.
Musk’s Criticism
Elon Musk has publicly criticized the F-35, advocating for unmanned drone swarms as superior combat options.
In November, Musk posted online, “Meanwhile, some idiots are still building manned fighter jets like the F-35.”
His remarks suggest a shift toward autonomous air combat systems could replace traditional fighter jets.
The debate over manned vs. unmanned combat aircraft continues among military strategists and aviation experts.
Despite criticism, the U.S. remains committed to developing advanced piloted aircraft like the F-47.
Future Expectations
The Air Force will now focus on integrating cutting-edge technology into the F-47’s development.
Military officials expect the new fighter jet to feature advanced stealth, AI integration, and superior agility.
The Pentagon aims for initial operational capability within the next decade.
Defense analysts predict the F-47 will be a key component of future U.S. military strategy.
Trump emphasized this project as part of his commitment to strengthening America’s defense capabilities.
