Fighter Jet F-47: Video Archive & Prospective Development Schedule
The U.S. Air Force's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program took a significant step forward in March 2025, with Boeing announced as the prime contractor for the development of the operational F-47. This sixth-generation stealth fighter is designed to provide air superiority with extended range, advanced stealth, and integration with autonomous drones.
Key Features and Timeline
The F-47 is a cutting-edge fighter jet, boasting a combat radius over 1,000 nautical miles (approximately 70% greater than the F-22), speeds exceeding Mach 2, and enhanced stealth capabilities referred to as "stealth++." Initially, flight tests were anticipated as early as 2025, with operational deployment projected between 2025 and 2029. However, engine development delays have pushed the completion of this crucial component from late 2027 to early 2030, impacting the overall program schedule.
Challenges and Budgetary Support
The F-47's development is not without its hurdles. Engine development complications, supply chain difficulties, and a labour strike involving 3,200 Boeing defense workers in August 2025 have presented significant challenges. Despite these setbacks, the Trump administration’s FY 2026 budget prioritized the F-47, allocating $3.5 billion, in contrast to cuts for the Navy’s competing F/A-XX fighter program, underscoring the F-47 as a presidential priority to secure air superiority.
Current Status and Future Deployment
The F-47 is currently in the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase, with the development and testing phase expected to last from 2025-2028. After achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in the late 2020s-early 2030s, the F-47 is expected to be fully deployed post-2030, replacing certain roles of F-22 and F-35 aircraft.
A Glimpse into the Future of Aerial Warfare
Air Force General David Allvin has stated that the F-47 will 'write the next generation of modern aerial warfare.' The integration of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) signifies the emergence of an era where human pilots can control swarms of autonomous support drones from the cockpit. This development has sparked interest from other countries, with discussions about the F-47's potential to counter China's J-36 fighter jet.
Transparency in Development
The video library for the F-47 provides citizens with a transparent view of the development of the next generation of American airpower. All videos in the library are sourced from verified sources, offering an insight into the progress of this groundbreaking project.
It's important to note that some aspects of the Boeing F-47 and the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program remain classified due to national security reasons. The F-47 is under public scrutiny due to rising global tensions and U.S. military technology.
In summary, while the program is advancing, the F-47's full operational deployment under NGAD is expected around or after 2030, later than initially planned. This next-generation stealth fighter is being developed by Boeing, with the objective of providing air superiority with extended range, advanced stealth, and integration with autonomous drones. The information in this article is compiled from multiple publicly available sources, including official statements, reputable news outlets, and expert commentary.
The F-47's development is not only restricted to integration with autonomous drones, but it also involves partnerships within various industries like finance, technology, and aerospace, given Boeing's reliance on these sectors for funding, research, and innovative technology to ensure the completion of the project.
The F-47's advancements in stealth technology, extended range, and autonomous capabilities make it a powerful contender in the global aerospace finance industry, positioning the US Air Force for dominance in modern aerial warfare.