The U.S. Air Force has begun the process of developing a ‘next-generation air control fighter’ (NGAD) to replace the F-22.
The U.S. Air Force said in a press release on the 18th (local time) that it had “disclosed to the industry a confidential request for an engineering and manufacturing development contract from NGAD, with the goal of awarding the contract in 2024.”
“The NGAD platform is a key component of our air dominance system family that represents a technological leap forward from the F-22 it will replace,” said Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall. It will include characteristics such as operational and adaptive capabilities.”
Air and Space Force magazine said, “Typically for a program of the size of NGAD, there is a 60 to 90-day period in which proposers can ask questions about draft proposals, respond to final proposals over a similar period, and then select a supplier.” It will take several months, so the second half of 2024 is a strong order period.” However, the media added that NGAD may not follow a general pattern.
Bloomberg reported that Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Northrop Grumman are likely to bid in competition.
“The NGAD platform is one of several key combat capabilities capable of achieving air superiority and supporting joint forces by conducting anti-air missions capable of striking both air and ground-based threats,” the U.S. Air Force said.
However, the US Air Force plans to spend $16 billion on NGAD research and development by 2028.
Kendall explained that the Air Force had decided to delay some F-35 procurements to expedite NGAD development. He also revealed that each NGAD aircraft will cost ‘hundreds of millions of dollars’ and will manufacture around 200.
Source: Donga
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.