U.S. Air Force's NGAD Program Faces Potential Overhaul Amid Budget Constraints

The U.S. Air Force's ambitious Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program faces a potential scale-back due to budget constraints, shifting priorities, and evolving goals. Initially envisioned as a state-of-the-art sixth-generation fighter jet system, the program's budget may be spread out, leading to potential delays and redesigns, including a shift towards a less expensive unmanned drone component.

The U.S. Air Force's ambitious next-generation fighter jet program, poised to revolutionize aerial combat technology, could see a scale-back due to budgetary constraints, competing priorities, and evolving goals, according to defense officials and industry executives.

The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program was initially designed as a 'family of systems' centered around a sixth-generation fighter jet to replace the F-22 Raptor and maintain U.S. aerial supremacy into the mid-21st century. The vision included unmatched stealth, laser weapons, and AI-driven data processing capabilities.

However, sources indicate the current $28.5 billion development budget over five years might be extended or reduced as the Pentagon seeks cost-effective solutions. The anticipated 2026 NGAD budget of $3.1 billion could be slashed, potentially delaying development by two years. Estimated costs could exceed $100 billion if 200 aircraft are produced, factoring in maintenance and upgrades. The Air Force is also re-evaluating the jet's design, possibly shifting to a larger single-engine model or investing more in a less expensive unmanned drone, according to industry experts.

(With inputs from agencies.)