In late June 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining air superiority by allocating $3.5 billion in the 2026 defense budget for the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, centered on the F-47 fighter jet. The funding includes $2.6 billion in discretionary spending and an additional $900 million pending legislative approval. Developed by Boeing, the F-47 is a sixth-generation, multi-role combat aircraft set to replace the F-22 Raptor and lead a new air combat framework. It features cutting-edge stealth design, adaptive cycle propulsion, and advanced avionics, while integrating seamlessly with unmanned Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). These autonomous assets will expand the F-47’s battlefield role by deploying sensors, electronic warfare tools, and precision weapons in contested environments, enhancing both survivability and combat effectiveness.
