Sixth-generation fighter

Sixth-generation fighter concepts generally share some assumptions. One is that fifth-generation aircraft will not be good enough at future air-to-air combat, surviving the anti-access/area denial environment, and ground support/attack. Another is that sixth-gen planes will do less close-in dogfighting, but beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missiles will remain important. Others include the need to handle ground support, cyber warfare and even space warfare missions; and the need to be able to direct or fight with more numerous fleets of satellite drones and ground sensors in a high-traffic networked environment, allowing for greater insights through data-informed decision-making.Baker 2018.

These and other assumptions suggest these design characteristics:{{Cite web |url=https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2019/9/16/what-to-expect-from-sixth-gen-aircraft |title=What to Expect from Sixth-Gen Aircraft |website=nationaldefensemagazine.org |access-date=22 August 2023 |archive-date=22 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822121500/https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2019/9/16/what-to-expect-from-sixth-gen-aircraft |url-status=live}}

• Designed using digital engineering (aka model-based design){{Cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2023/08/30/future-fighter-program-poses-key-test-for-us-air-forces-design-method/|title=Future fighter program poses key test for US Air Force's design method|website= defensenews.com|date=29 August 2023}}
• Advanced digital capabilities including high-capacity networking, artificial intelligence, data fusion, cyber warfare, data-to-decision and battlefield command, control and communications (C3) capabilities.
• Use of Gallium nitride in power transistors
• Optionally manned, with the same airframe capable of conducting piloted, remote controlled or onboard-AI controlled missions.
• Enhanced human-systems integration, with virtual cockpits presented via helmet-mounted displays which allow the pilot 360-degree vision with AI-enhanced battlefield awareness, and replacing conventional instrument panels.
• Advanced stealth airframes and avionics.
• Advanced variable-cycle engines able to cruise economically but still deliver high thrust when required.
• Increased-range stand-off and beyond-visual-range weapons.
• Potential use of directed-energy weapons such as a laser close-in weapon system (CIWS).
• Software architecture with separation of flight critical operations from other functionality{{Cite web|url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/development-of-next-generation-fighter-jet/|title=UK Employs Artificial Intelligence To Support Development Of Its 6th-Gen Fighter Program, Tempest|website= eurasiantimes.com|date=3 December 2023}}
• Potential capability for suborbital flight to achieve global reach, evade defenses, and satellite operations.{{Cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/white-emperor-chinas-new-6th-generation-ngad-fighter-looks-fierce-213704|title=New 6th Generation 'NGAD' Fighter |website= nationalinterest.org|date=3 November 2024}}

The feasibility of some of these characteristics remains uncertain. Development time and cost are likely to prove major factors in laying out practical roadmaps. Specific requirements are anticipated by some observers to crystallize around 2025.

On 6 May 2024, during a press trip at the Embraer factory in the city of São José dos Campos, São Paulo, the Director of Industrial Cooperation of Saab in Brazil, Luiz Hernandez, stated that Brazil will develop a sixth-generation fighter based on technologies from the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, already in production in the country. The project would be a cooperation between Embraer and the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology. The Vice President of Embraer's defence division, Walter Pinto Junior, confirmed the idealization of the project, and commented that "for Embraer, fighter aviation is a possibility of taking higher flights", but highlighted that the company still needs a "business plan, to make a viable long-term project".{{cite web |last1=Alvez |first1=Xandu |title=Com tecnologia do Gripen, FAB quer criar caça do futuro no Brasil |trans-title=With Gripen's technology, FAB wants to create the fighter of the future in Brazil |url=https://sampi.net.br/ovale/noticias/2837778/vale-do-paraiba/2024/06/com-tecnologia-do-gripen-fab-quer-criar-caca-do-futuro-no-brasil |website=O VALE |access-date=8 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608201734/https://sampi.net.br/ovale/noticias/2837778/vale-do-paraiba/2024/06/com-tecnologia-do-gripen-fab-quer-criar-caca-do-futuro-no-brasil |language=pt |archive-date=8 June 2024 |date=7 June 2024 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Igor |first1=Gielow |title=Caça Gripen produzido no Brasil se prepara para decolar em 2025 |trans-title=Gripen fighter produced in Brazil prepares to take off in 2025 |url=https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/poder/2024/06/caca-gripen-produzido-no-brasil-se-prepara-para-decolar-em-2025.shtml |website=Folha de S.Paulo|language=pt |access-date=8 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240606201231/https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/poder/2024/06/caca-gripen-produzido-no-brasil-se-prepara-para-decolar-em-2025.shtml |archive-date=6 June 2024 |date=6 June 2024 |url-status=live}}

{{see also|Chengdu J-36|Shenyang J-50}}

After successfully developing the 5th-generation J-20 stealth fighter, China was then working on the development of a next-generation aircraft. In January 2019, Dr. Wang Haifeng, chief designer of the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) announced that China had begun pre-research on sixth-generation aircraft, predicting that the program would come to fruition by 2035.{{cite web |author-last=Joe |author-first=Rick |date=20 September 2019 |title=Beyond China's J-20 Stealth Fighter |url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/09/beyond-chinas-j-20-stealth-fighter/ |access-date=3 September 2021 |website=thediplomat |publisher=Trans-Asia Inc. |archive-date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110185205/https://thediplomat.com/2019/09/beyond-chinas-j-20-stealth-fighter/ |url-status=live}}{{cite web |author-last=Osborn |author-first=Kris |date=8 April 2021 |title=China Claims It Will Win the Race to a New Stealth Fighter |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/china-claims-it-will-win-race-new-stealth-fighter-182256 |access-date=3 September 2021 |website=nationalinterest.org |publisher=Center for the National Interest |archive-date=26 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926105558/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/china-claims-it-will-win-race-new-stealth-fighter-182256 |url-status=live}}

In 2018, Chengdu Aerospace Corporation reportedly submitted eight proposals for the sixth-generation fighter design, and four designs were tested in low-altitude wind tunnels.{{cite web |last=Trimble |first=Steve |date=6 February 2023 |title=Weekly Debrief: What Does A Concept Design Reveal About China's Next Fighter? |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/weekly-debrief-what-does-concept-design-reveal-about-chinas-next |website=Aviation Week}} In the same year, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) also reportedly developed prototypes for the next-generation aircraft.{{cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=28 September 2022 |title=China Is Working On Its Own Sixth-Generation Fighter Program: Official |url=https://www.twz.com/china-is-working-on-its-own-sixth-generation-fighter-program-official |website=The War Zone |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=26 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226214415/https://www.twz.com/china-is-working-on-its-own-sixth-generation-fighter-program-official |url-status=live}}

In October 2021, a fighter aircraft with a tailless design was spotted in Chengdu Aircraft Corporation facilities.{{cite web |last=Rogoway |first=Tyler |date=30 October 2021 |title=Tailless Fighter-Like Airframe Spotted At Chinese Jet Manufacturer's Test Airfield |url=https://www.twz.com/42937/tailless-fighter-like-airframe-spotted-at-chinese-fighter-jet-manufacturers-test-airfield?xid=twittershare |website=The War Zone}} Intelligence and rumors indicated the Chinese designs would use tailless flying wing or flying arrowhead configuration that can provide greater broadband stealth characteristics compared to the previous generation of fighters, new propulsion technologies, improved sensors allowing the aircraft to operate alongside unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), etc.{{cite web |last=Joe |first=Rick |date=11 June 2024 |title=China's 6th Generation and Upcoming Combat Aircraft: 2024 Update |url=https://thediplomat.com/2024/06/chinas-6th-generation-and-upcoming-combat-aircraft-2024-update/ |website=The Diplomat |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=11 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611150941/https://thediplomat.com/2024/06/chinas-6th-generation-and-upcoming-combat-aircraft-2024-update/ |url-status=live}}

In September 2022, United States Air Force (USAF) General Mark D. Kelly, head of the Air Combat Command (ACC) said China was on track for its sixth-generation fighter program, and that it looked at sixth-generation technology in the same way USAF did in terms of using a ‘system of systems’ approach while offering “exponential” improvements in stealth, processing power, and sensing. He added that China saw that the technology allowed for iteration based on open mission systems and that the country's ability to master the advanced levels of stealth required for sixth-generation platforms was part of that iterative approach.{{cite web |last=Arthur |first=Gordon |date=24 June 2024 |title=When will China have a sixth-gen fighter jet? |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/06/24/when-will-china-have-a-sixth-gen-fighter-jet/ |website=Defense News}}

In February 2023, Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) shared its six-generation fighter aircraft concept on social media. The featured concept included diamond-shaped wings and tailless design,{{cite web |last=Roblin |first=Sébastien |date=16 February 2023 |title=China's Sixth-Gen Fighter Jet Sure Looks Like the Air Force's Sixth-Gen Fighter Jet |url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a42929062/sixth-generation-fighter-jet-leaked-images-us-air-force-china/ |website=Popular Mechanics |access-date=5 March 2023 |archive-date=5 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305054202/https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a42929062/sixth-generation-fighter-jet-leaked-images-us-air-force-china/ |url-status=live}} which correlated with earlier images released in various AVIC presentations.

In November 2024, AVIC released footage of a mockup of the Baidi B-Type (White Emperor) “integrated space-air fighter”. Some commentaries believed the mock-up indicated six-generation fighter capabilities,{{cite web |last=Moriah |first=Ricardo |date=16 November 2024 |title=Fiction or truth? Mock-up of futuristic Chinese fighter attracts attention in Zhuhai |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/fiction-or-truth-mock-up-of-futuristic-chinese-fighter-attracts-attention-in-zhuhai/ |website=Air Data News}} while critics stated claims of space operations capability lack evidence and were "dubious".{{cite web |last=Kajal |first=Kapil |date=12 November 2024 |title=White Emperor: China reveals mysterious jet that could be its first 6th-gen fighter |url=https://interestingengineering.com/military/china-reveals-mysterious-6th-gen-fighter |website=Interesting Engineering |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=4 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204142056/https://interestingengineering.com/military/china-reveals-mysterious-6th-gen-fighter |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=Kass |first=Harrison |date=24 December 2024 |title=China's 'White Emperor' Could Be a 'Fake' NGAD 6th Generation Fighter |url=https://www.19fortyfive.com/2024/12/chinas-white-emperor-could-be-a-fake-ngad-6th-generation-fighter/ |website=1945}}{{Cite web |last=Kass |first=Harrison |date=November 14, 2024 |title=China's 'NGAD' White Emperor 6th Generation Fighter Is a Problem for the Air Force |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/chinas-ngad-white-emperor-6th-generation-fighter-problem-air-force-213716 |website=The National Interest |access-date=15 November 2024 |archive-date=15 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241115103757/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/chinas-ngad-white-emperor-6th-generation-fighter-problem-air-force-213716 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |date=19 November 2024 |title=China's 'White Emperor' Sixth-Generation Fighter Isn't Real |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/china%E2%80%99s-white-emperor-sixth-generation-fighter-isn%E2%80%99t-real-213792 |website=The National Interest |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=21 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121093917/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/china%E2%80%99s-white-emperor-sixth-generation-fighter-isn%E2%80%99t-real-213792 |url-status=live}} The mock-up was later proved to be a marketing plan for an AVIC-sponsored science fiction novel.{{Cite web |title="科幻照进现实"的"南天门计划"来了！"白帝""寒光"实物模型亮相珠海航展 |url=https://pub-zhtb.hizh.cn/a/202411/14/AP6735f267e4b080be7be6f5e4.html |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=pub-zhtb.hizh.cn |archive-date=26 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226113748/https://pub-zhtb.hizh.cn/a/202411/14/AP6735f267e4b080be7be6f5e4.html |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=陈 |first=筠 |date=26 November 2024 |title="白帝乙型"空天概念战机亮相 展现中国太空竞争野心？ |url=https://www.voachinese.com/a/baidi-b-concept-aircraft-unveiled-highlights-chinas-space-competition-ambitions-20241125/7876327.html |website=Voice of America Chinese |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=26 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241126003500/https://www.voachinese.com/a/baidi-b-concept-aircraft-unveiled-highlights-chinas-space-competition-ambitions-20241125/7876327.html |url-status=live}}

On 26 December 2024, social media photos and videos suggested Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) has publicly flown a prototype aircraft in Chengdu, Sichuan. The aircraft was spotted flying around an airport owned by CAC and features a trijet tailless flying wing design. Tentatively designated Chengdu J-36 by defense analysts, it was trailed by a Chengdu J-20S twin-seater stealth fighter as the chase plane.{{Cite web |last1=Newdick |first1=Thomas |last2=Rogoway |first2=Tyler |date=26 December 2024 |title=China Stuns With Heavy Stealth Tactical Jet's Sudden Appearance (Updated) |url=https://www.twz.com/air/china-stuns-with-heavy-stealth-tactical-jets-sudden-appearance |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US |archive-date=26 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226170038/https://www.twz.com/air/china-stuns-with-heavy-stealth-tactical-jets-sudden-appearance |url-status=live}}{{cite web |date=26 December 2024 |title=First flight of Chinese 6th-Generation fighter today |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/first-flight-of-chinese-6th-generation-fighter-today |website=Scramble}} The aircraft was believed to have advanced stealth and sensor features, while its capabilities, roles, and design details remained speculative.{{cite web |date=26 December 2024 |title=New Chinese Advanced Combat Aircraft Emerge In Flight |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/new-chinese-advanced-combat-aircraft-emerge-flight |website=Aviation Week |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=27 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241227020656/https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/new-chinese-advanced-combat-aircraft-emerge-flight |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=26 September 2024 |title=Yes, China Just Flew Another Tailless Next-Generation Stealth Combat Aircraft |url=https://www.twz.com/air/yes-china-just-flew-another-tailless-next-generation-stealth-combat-aircraft#comments |website=The War Zone |access-date=27 December 2024 |archive-date=26 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226215552/https://www.twz.com/air/yes-china-just-flew-another-tailless-next-generation-stealth-combat-aircraft#comments |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=Ling |first=Xin |date=27 December 2024 |title=New Chinese fighter jet seen over Chengdu tacitly confirmed by military |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3292377/new-chinese-fighter-jet-seen-over-chengdu-tacitly-confirmed-military |website=South China Morning Post}}{{Cite web |date=2024-12-27 |title=China surpasses rivals with 'world-class' sixth-gen stealth fighter jet: experts |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3292462/china-surpasses-rivals-world-class-sixth-gen-stealth-fighter-jet-experts |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en |archive-date=27 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241227091424/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3292462/china-surpasses-rivals-world-class-sixth-gen-stealth-fighter-jet-experts |url-status=live}} Observers believe that CAC chose 26 December to carry out the flight in commemoration of Mao Zedong's birthday on that day.{{Cite web |last=Waldron2024-12-27T04:58:00+00:00 |first=Greg |title=China celebrates Mao's birthday with new combat jets |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/china-celebrates-maos-birthday-with-new-combat-jets/161225.article#:~:text=Images%20of%20the%20first%20aircraft,ruler%20from%201949%20to%201976. |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=Flight Global |language=en |archive-date=27 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241227084301/https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/china-celebrates-maos-birthday-with-new-combat-jets/161225.article#:~:text=Images%20of%20the%20first%20aircraft,ruler%20from%201949%20to%201976. |url-status=live}} On the same day, further social media posts indicated a second airframe, featuring a cranked arrow configuration with sharply swept wings, was spotted near Shenyang Aircraft Corporation's facilities. Unconfirmed reports suggested the Shenyang fighter made its maiden flight on 20 December 2024. The Shenyang aircraft prototype seemed to be smaller than the Chengdu one. It was trailed by a Shenyang J-16 strike fighter as the chase plane.{{cite web|url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/12/27/second-new-chinese-stealth-jet/ |title=Second New Chinese Stealth Jet Emerges in the Same Day |website=The Aviationist |first=Stefano |last=D'Urso |date=27 December 2024}}{{Cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=2024-12-26 |title=Yes, China Just Flew Another Tailless Next-Generation Stealth Combat Aircraft |url=https://www.twz.com/air/yes-china-just-flew-another-tailless-next-generation-stealth-combat-aircraft |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226215552/https://www.twz.com/air/yes-china-just-flew-another-tailless-next-generation-stealth-combat-aircraft |archive-date=26 December 2024 |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}{{cite web |title=China Revealed Two New Stealth Fighter Designs In One Momentous Day |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/12/26/china-revealed-two-new-stealth-fighter-designs-in-one-momentous-day/ |work=Forbes}} The aircraft was tentatively named Shenyang J-50 or Shenyang J-XD by analysts for identification, but further information was limited.{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/update-two-chinese-stealth-aircraft-programmes-emerge-unexpectedly |title=Update: Two Chinese stealth aircraft programmes emerge unexpectedly |website=Janes |date=30 December 2024 |first=Akhil |last=Kadidal}}{{cite web |last1=Honrada |first1=Gabriel |date=2 January 2025 |title=China's J-36 stealth fighter another blow to US air superiority |url=https://asiatimes.com/2025/01/chinas-j-36-stealth-fighter-another-blow-to-us-air-superiority/ |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=Asia Times}}{{cite web|url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a63360888/china-sixth-gen-fighters/ |title=Two New Chinese Sixth-Gen Fighter Jets Have Emerged in a Direct Challenge to U.S. Air Superiority |website=Popular Mechanics |date=7 January 2025 |first=Sébastien |last=Roblin}}

{{main|Future Combat Air System}}

Within the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme, France, Germany, and Spain are jointly working on a sixth-generation fighter known as the Next-Generation Fighter (NGF).{{Cite web|last=Machi|first=Vivienne|date=2021-05-17|title=New trinational deal paves way for FCAS demonstrator program|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/05/17/new-trinational-deal-paves-way-for-fcas-demonstrator-program/|access-date=2021-09-03|website=Defense News|language=en|archive-date=24 May 2021|archive-url=https://archive.today/20210524114640/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/05/17/new-trinational-deal-paves-way-for-fcas-demonstrator-program/|url-status=live}}

On 8 October 2020, Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Bhadauria said the Indian Air Force (IAF) has a clear roadmap for sixth-generation combat systems such as directed energy weapons, smart wingman concept, optionally manned combat platforms, swarm drones, hypersonic weapons, and other equipment.{{Cite web|title=Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria interview: 'Indigenisation essential for strategic development'|url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/nation/2020/10/08/indigenisation-is-essential-for-true-strategic-development--iaf-.html|access-date=2020-10-08|website=Onmanorama|author=Anantha Krishnan|language=en|archive-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130230304/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/nation/2020/10/08/indigenisation-is-essential-for-true-strategic-development--iaf-.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|title=IAF demonstrated its operational capability along northern border: Chief of Air Staff|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indian-air-force-demonstrated-its-operational-capability-air-chief-marshal-bhadauria/articleshow/78548361.cms|access-date=2020-10-08|archive-date=5 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201105210705/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indian-air-force-demonstrated-its-operational-capability-air-chief-marshal-bhadauria/articleshow/78548361.cms|url-status=live}} On 22 October 2021, Bhadauria's successor Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari said India's fifth-generation AMCA, which was then under development, would have some sixth-generation technologies.{{Cite web|url=https://eurasiantimes.com/indias-5th-gen-fighter-jet-amca-will-have-6th-gen-technology-indian-air-force/|title=India's 5th-Gen Fighter Jet 'AMCA' Will Have 6th-Gen Technology – Indian Air Force|website=Eurasian Times|date=6 October 2020|access-date=19 June 2021|archive-date=8 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210608011039/https://eurasiantimes.com/indias-5th-gen-fighter-jet-amca-will-have-6th-gen-technology-indian-air-force/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/05/amca-could-fly-undetected-during-dangerous-missions.html|title=AMCA could fly undetected during dangerous missions|date=February 5, 2020|website=Onmanorama|language=en|access-date=2020-02-06|author=Anantha Krishnan M|archive-date=6 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206075736/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/05/amca-could-fly-undetected-during-dangerous-missions.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Siddiqui|first=Huma|date=2021-10-22|title=Exclusive- Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari to FE Online: Ready for two-front war; IAF is aiming for self reliance in all spheres|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/exclusive-air-chief-marshal-vr-chaudhari-to-fe-online-ready-for-two-front-war-iaf-is-aiming-for-self-reliance-in-all-spheres/2355055/|access-date=2021-10-22|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022145246/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/exclusive-air-chief-marshal-vr-chaudhari-to-fe-online-ready-for-two-front-war-iaf-is-aiming-for-self-reliance-in-all-spheres/2355055/|url-status=live}}

{{main|Global Combat Air Programme}}

{{Further|BAE Systems Tempest|Mitsubishi F-X}}

In 2010, the Japanese government revealed the concept sixth-generation jet fighter, the i3 FIGHTER.{{Citation|title=The research and development vision of a future fighter (Japanese)|date=25 August 2010|url=https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2010/08/25a_02.pdf|place=JP|publisher=MoD|access-date=5 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130418024523/http://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2010/08/25a_02.pdf|archive-date=18 April 2013|url-status=live}} i3 is short for informed, intelligent and instantaneous.{{cite news|url= http://theweek.com/articles/602679/japansf-new-stealth-fighter-futuristic-marvel |title= Japan's new stealth fighter is a futuristic marvel|last1= Simpson|first1= James|date=2 February 2016|access-date=8 February 2016|publisher=War Is Boring|website= The week |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160208105708/http://theweek.com/articles/602679/japans-new-stealth-fighter-futuristic-marvel |archive-date=8 February 2016|url-status= live}}

In July 2014, Jane's Information Group reported that a House of Commons Defence Select Committee had published a report about the UK's "post-2030 combat aviation force structure". The report highlighted a possibility of the UK committing to a next generation fighter program to potentially replace the Eurofighter Typhoon post-2030; the Eurofighter Typhoon has since had its intended service life extended to around 2040.{{Citation |title= UK sets out post 2030 combat aviation force structure |url= http://www.janes.com/article/41309/uk-sets-out-post-2030-combat-aviation-force-structure |newspaper= Jane’s |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140820072232/http://www.janes.com/article/41309/uk-sets-out-post-2030-combat-aviation-force-structure |url-status= dead |publisher= IHS |access-date= 19 August 2014 |archive-date= 20 August 2014}} On 22 March 2016, Japan conducted the first flight of the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin testbed aircraft for this project.

In July 2018, Gavin Williamson, then Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom, unveiled the United Kingdom's Combat Air Strategy and announced the development of a sixth-generation fighter concept named the Tempest for the Royal Air Force at the 2018 Farnborough Airshow.{{Cite news|url= https://theaviationist.com/2018/07/17/lets-have-a-look-at-the-tempest-uks-6th-generation-combat-aircraft-mock-up-unveiled-at-the-farnborough-air-show/ |title=Let's Have a Look at the "Tempest", UK's 6th Generation Combat Aircraft Mock-Up Unveiled at the Farnborough Air Show |date=16 July 2018|access-date= 17 July 2018 |work= The avionist |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180717131101/https://theaviationist.com/2018/07/17/lets-have-a-look-at-the-tempest-uks-6th-generation-combat-aircraft-mock-up-unveiled-at-the-farnborough-air-show/ |archive-date= 17 July 2018|url-status= live}}{{Cite news|url= http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/22190/the-u-k-s-new-tempest-stealth-fighter-project-already-faces-serious-challenges |title= Let's Have a Look at the "Tempest", UK's 6th Generation Combat Aircraft Mock-Up Unveiled at the Farnborough Air Show|last= Trevithick|first= Trevor |work= The drive |date= 16 July 2018 |access-date= 17 July 2018|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180716232008/http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/22190/the-u-k-s-new-tempest-stealth-fighter-project-already-faces-serious-challenges |archive-date=16 July 2018|url-status= live}}

In 2019, Sweden and Italy joined the Tempest project.{{Cite web |last= Chuter |first= Andrew |date= 7 July 2019 |title= Sweden to join British 'Tempest' next-gen fighter push |url= https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2019/07/07/sweden-to-join-british-tempest-next-gen-fighter-push/ |access-date= 16 June 2020 |website= Defense News |language= en-US |archive-date= 6 March 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230306202757/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2019/07/07/sweden-to-join-british-tempest-next-gen-fighter-push/ |url-status= live}}{{Cite web |last1= Chuter |first1= Andrew |first2= Sebastian |last2= Sprenger |date= 11 September 2019 |title= British, Italian defense companies jump on Tempest |url= https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/dsei/2019/09/11/british-italian-defense-companies-jump-on-tempest/ |access-date= 16 June 2020 |website= Defense News |language= en-US |archive-date= 6 March 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230306202920/https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/dsei/2019/09/11/british-italian-defense-companies-jump-on-tempest/ |url-status= live}} During the same year, India and Japan were also invited to join the project.{{Cite news|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=8 February 2019|title=UK to invite India to co-develop sixth-generation fighter aircraft Tempest|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/defence/uk-to-invite-india-to-co-develop-sixth-generation-fighter-aircraft-tempest-119020701627_1.html|access-date=3 August 2020|archive-date=5 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201105220156/https://www.business-standard.com/article/defence/uk-to-invite-india-to-co-develop-sixth-generation-fighter-aircraft-tempest-119020701627_1.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Chuter|first= Andrew|date=20 July 2020|title= British next-generation fighter program taps new suppliers|url= https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2020/07/20/british-next-generation-fighter-program-taps-new-suppliers/ |access-date=3 August 2020|website=Defense News |language=en-US}} On 1 April 2020, the Japanese F-X program was announced. In 2022, after a year of ever closer collaboration with the Tempest project and a retreat from an industrial partnership with Lockheed Martin, Japan merged its F-X project with the BAE Tempest fighter development to form the three nation Global Combat Air Programme while opting to pursue separate drone development. Two weeks after the agreement was signed between the UK, Italy & Japan; Sweden signed a bi-lateral defence trade agreement with Japan allowing them to continue on as an observer in the programme and the option to participate as a development partner in the future if desired.

{{main|Mikoyan PAK DP}}

On 26 August 2013, Russia revealed it would proceed with development of a sixth-generation jet fighter. They say the aircraft will most likely be pilotless. However, they would not skip completing development of fifth-generation fighter projects, like the Sukhoi Su-57.{{Citation|title=Russia Developing Unmanned Next-Generation Fighter |date=26 August 2013|url= http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130826/182971084/Russia-Developing-Unmanned-Next-Generation-Fighter---General.html |newspaper= Ria|place=RU|access-date=27 August 2013|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131228024741/http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130826/182971084/Russia-Developing-Unmanned-Next-Generation-Fighter---General.html|archive-date=28 December 2013|url-status=live|df= dmy-all}}

Mikoyan PAK DP is a Russian program to develop a next generation interceptor aircraft to replace the Mikoyan MiG-31. According to the Russian defense analyst Vasily Kashin, the aircraft would be considered as a 5++ or 6th generation fighter project.{{cite web |url= http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/mig-41-russias-wants-build-super-6th-generation-fighter-20064 |title= MiG-41: Russia Wants to Build a Super 6th Generation Fighter |website= Global national interest |date= 6 April 2017 |access-date= 2021-07-13 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170414233231/http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/mig-41-russias-wants-build-super-6th-generation-fighter-20064 |archive-date= 2017-04-14 |url-status= live}} In January 2021, Rostec Corporation, the owner of Mikoyan, announced that the PAK DP had now entered the development phase, saying "Development of the next generation of interceptor fighters has already begun."{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/russia-launches-pak-dp-development-to-replace-mig-31|title=Russia launches PAK DP development to replace MiG-31|website=Janes.com|access-date=13 July 2021|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026214149/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/russia-launches-pak-dp-development-to-replace-mig-31|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://rg.ru/2021/01/24/istrebitel-mig-41-vyshel-na-stadiiu-opytno-konstruktorskih-rabot.html|title=Истребитель МиГ-41 вышел на стадию опытно-конструкторских работ|website=Российская газета|date=24 January 2021|access-date=13 July 2021|archive-date=23 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220223151343/https://rg.ru/2021/01/24/istrebitel-mig-41-vyshel-na-stadiiu-opytno-konstruktorskih-rabot.html|url-status=live}}

SAAB was awarded a contract by the Swedish government to investigate developing a sixth generation fighter in March 2024 with a decision planned latest 2030. Several of the sixth generation technologies have already been developed for the Gripen.{{Cite web|url=https://www.saab.com/sv/newsroom/press-releases/2024/saab-far-order-fran-fmv-pa-konceptstudier-om-framtida-stridsflyg|title=SAAB gets order from FMV for concept studies to replace Gripen|website=saab.com|access-date=1 April 2025|url-status=live}}

{{Main|F/A-XX program|Next Generation Air Dominance}}

The United States Air Force (USAF) and United States Navy (USN) are anticipated to field their first sixth-generation fighters around 2030.{{Citation|last=Mizokami|first=Kyle|title='Sixth Generation' Fighters Jets Are Already Taking Shape|date=28 March 2017|url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a25832/sixth-generation-fighter-jets-already-taking-shape/|website=Popular Mechanics|df=dmy-all|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827142640/https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a25832/sixth-generation-fighter-jets-already-taking-shape/|access-date=27 August 2018|archive-date=27 August 2018|url-status=live}}{{citation|title=The Sixth Generation Fighter|date=October 2009|url=http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2009/October%202009/1009fighter.aspx|newspaper=Air Force Magazine|df=dmy-all|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810135447/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2009/October%202009/1009fighter.aspx|access-date=28 December 2010|archive-date=10 August 2011|url-status=live}} The USAF is pursuing development and acquisition of a sixth-generation air superiority fighter through the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program that succeeds the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor.{{cite web|last=Roblin|first=Sebastien|date=21 July 2018|title=Beyond the F-22 or F-35: What Will the Sixth-Generation Jet Fighter Look Like?|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/beyond-f-22-or-f-35-what-will-sixth-generation-jet-fighter-look-26451|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226050159/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/beyond-f-22-or-f-35-what-will-sixth-generation-jet-fighter-look-26451|archive-date=26 December 2018|website=The National Interest|access-date=29 December 2018|df=dmy-all}}{{Cite web|title=The Air Force Is Planning For a Future Without the F-22|url=https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2021/05/air-force-planning-future-without-f-22/174001/|access-date=2021-05-26|website=Defense One|date=12 May 2021|language=en|archive-date=25 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230925125019/https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2021/05/air-force-planning-future-without-f-22/174001/|url-status=live}} The USN is pursuing a similar program using the same name with the fighter component called the F/A-XX, likewise intended to complement the smaller Lockheed Martin F-35C Lightning II and replace existing aircraft such as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.{{Citation|title=Boeing's fighting comeback|date=12 July 2011|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing39s-fighting-comeback-359258/|website=Flightglobal|df=dmy-all|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114100601/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing39s-fighting-comeback-359258/|access-date=22 January 2014|archive-date=14 January 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite report|url=https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21095460-navy-aviation-vision-2030-2035_fnl?responsive=1&title=1|title=Navy Aviation Vision 2030-2035. NAVAIR Public Release 2021-478.|date=October 2021|work=U.S. Navy|archive-date=30 October 2021|access-date=30 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030124729/https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/21095460-navy-aviation-vision-2030-2035_fnl?responsive=1&title=1|url-status=live}}

The Navy launched its F/A-XX program in 2008. Two years later, the USAF sought initial responses for a Next Generation Tactical Aircraft (Next Gen TACAIR), which would become the F-X program.Baker 2018, pp.127-8.{{citation |publisher= FBO |place= US |url= https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=782e30c9c983f85e7952c2adc426b189&tab=core&_cview=1 |title= USAF: Next Generation Tactical Aircraft (Next Gen TACAIR) Materiel and Technology Concepts Search |access-date= 2010-11-05 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110928132431/https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=782e30c9c983f85e7952c2adc426b189&tab=core&_cview=1 |archive-date= 2011-09-28 |url-status= live}}{{citation |url= http://defensetech.org/2010/11/05/air-force-kicks-off-search-for-6th-gen-fighter/ |publisher= Defense Tech |date= 2010-11-05 |title= Air Force Kicks Off Search for 6th-Gen Fighter |access-date= 2010-12-27 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110727105536/http://defensetech.org/2010/11/05/air-force-kicks-off-search-for-6th-gen-fighter/ |archive-date= 2011-07-27 |url-status= live}}

In April 2013, DARPA began looking at a plan to merge the USAF and USN concepts,{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/darpa-working-on-sixth-generation-fighter-study-385112/ |title=DARPA working on sixth-generation fighter study |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=24 April 2013 |work=Flight International |publisher=Reed Business Information |access-date=25 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130427235306/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/darpa-working-on-sixth-generation-fighter-study-385112/ |archive-date=27 April 2013 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}} develop prototype X-planes under the "Air Dominance Initiative", and lay the groundwork for a single plane with Navy and Air Force variants.[http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/strike/2015/01/28/sixth-generation-fighter-2016-budget/22477329/ New Budget Will Feature 6th Gen Fighter] – Defensenews.com, 28 January 2015 But that same year, the RAND Corporation recommended that the services avoid a joint fighter effort, noting that in previous complex joint projects, design compromises had raised costs far more than normal single-service programs.{{Citation |url= http://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_briefs/RB9700/RR9759/RAND_RB9759.pdf |title= The Department of Defense Should Avoid a Joint Acquisition Approach to the Sixth-Generation Fighter |publisher= Rand |access-date= 2014-01-22 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140219035026/http://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_briefs/RB9700/RR9759/RAND_RB9759.pdf |archive-date= 2014-02-19 |url-status= live}}

In 2014, a broader approach to offensive technologies was proposed, with USAF aircraft anticipated to operate alongside ground-based and non-kinetic anti-aircraft solutions, and with a greater weapon load than current fighters.{{Citation |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-debates-future-fighter-requirement-402243/ |title= USAF debates future fighter requirement |publisher= Flight global |date= 31 July 2014 |access-date= 31 July 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140808051838/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-debates-future-fighter-requirement-402243/ |archive-date= 8 August 2014 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}} In 2016, the USAF consolidated this change of course for its Air Superiority 2030 plan, to pursue "a network of integrated systems disaggregated across multiple platforms" rather than focusing on the sixth-generation fighter.{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/2016/04/08/beyond-fighter-jet-air-force-2030/82767356/ |title=Beyond the Fighter Jet: The Air Force of 2030 |last1=Seligman |first1=Lara |date=18 April 2016 |website= defensenews.com |publisher=Defense News |access-date=24 April 2016}} The Air Force and Navy requirements had already been merged the year before and were now formally integrated, with the joint focus to be on AI systems and a common airframe.Baker 2018, p.128.

Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman have all announced sixth-generation aircraft development projects.{{Citation |url= http://defensetech.org/2011/09/20/boeings-sixth-gen-fighter/ |title= Boeing's Sixth-Gen Fighter |newspaper= Defense tech |date= 20 September 2011 |access-date= 21 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140203113905/http://defensetech.org/2011/09/20/boeings-sixth-gen-fighter/ |archive-date= 3 February 2014 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}}{{Cite web |last= Trimble |first= Stephen |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-reveals-bold-technology-plans-with-6th-gen-fighter-concept-366533/ |title= Lockheed reveals bold technology plans with 6th-gen fighter concept |newspaper= Flight International |date= 4 January 2012 |publisher= Flight global |quote= Russian, Chinese and Indian designs are predicted to follow on from their fifth generation fighters to provide competition to American jets. These are expected to enter service between the 2030–2050 timeframe as well. |access-date= 5 January 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120109004550/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-reveals-bold-technology-plans-with-6th-gen-fighter-concept-366533/ |archive-date= 9 January 2012 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}}[https://www.defensenews.com/air/2015/01/21/northrop-developing-6th-gen-fighter-plans/ Northrop Developing 6th Gen Fighter Plans] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306204924/https://www.defensenews.com/air/2015/01/21/northrop-developing-6th-gen-fighter-plans/ |date=6 March 2023}}, Defense news, 22 January 2015 On 14 September 2020, the U.S. Air Force confirmed that it has designed, built and flown at least one prototype of its next-generation fighter.{{Cite web|last=Insinna|first=Valerie|date=2020-09-15|title=Air Force confirmed that it has designed built and flown at least one prototype of its next-generation fighter jet|url=https://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Air_Force_says_its_testing_a_next-generation_fighter_jet_999.html|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|last=Insinna|first=Valerie|date=2020-09-15|title=The US Air Force has built and flown a mysterious full-scale prototype of its future fighter jet|url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2020/09/15/the-us-air-force-has-built-and-flown-a-mysterious-full-scale-prototype-of-its-future-fighter-jet/|access-date=2020-09-15|website=Defense News|language=en-US|archive-date=6 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306204906/https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2020/09/15/the-us-air-force-has-built-and-flown-a-mysterious-full-scale-prototype-of-its-future-fighter-jet/|url-status=live}}

The winner of the NGAD program was revealed to be the Boeing F-47 on 21 March 2025.{{Cite news |title=Donald Trump announces F-47, 6-th Gen fighter by Boeing: 'Nothing in the world comes even close to it' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/donald-trump-announces-f-47-new-6-th-gen-fighter-by-boeing-nothing-in-the-world-comes-even-close-to-it/articleshow/119310072.cms |access-date=2025-03-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

The Navy and Air Force visions for their respective next-generation jet concepts agree on some fundamental characteristics: These include the need for artificial intelligence as a decision aid to the pilot, similar in concept to current sensor fusion; non-GPS positioning-navigation-timing gear, and communications that allow big-data movement between aircraft.{{cite web |url= http://news.usni.org/2014/08/28/navys-next-fighter-likely-feature-artificial-intelligence |title= Navy's Next Fighter Likely to Feature Artificial Intelligence |publisher= USNI |date= 28 August 2014 |access-date= 29 August 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140901045923/http://news.usni.org/2014/08/28/navys-next-fighter-likely-feature-artificial-intelligence |archive-date= 1 September 2014 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}}

The Air Force regards stealth technology as extremely important for the F-X, while the Navy say the F/A-XX should not be so focused on survivability as to sacrifice speed and payload. Unlike the previous F-22 and F-35 development programs that depended on new technologies that drove up cost and delayed introduction, the Air Force is intending to follow a methodical path of risk reduction to include as much prototyping, technology demonstration, and systems engineering work as possible before creation of an aircraft actually starts. Sixth-generation strike capability is envisioned as a move beyond the limitations inherent to the potential abilities of a single strike aircraft. 6th-gen combat awareness will require a theater-wide integration of diverse systems beginning with the primary airborne sensory suite and further including real-time data linking of ground-based detection and ranging technology with sensors aboard primary and support aircraft, advanced communication capabilities, unparalleled capacity for continuous onboard info-stream processing utilizing AI for real-time data translation and rendering geared toward optimizing pilot situational awareness while reducing workload, potential near-space capabilities, extension of existing strike/standoff ranges, seamless co-operation with ground-to air defense assets and the ability to deploy aircraft in manned, optionally manned, unmanned and stand-in options.[http://aviationweek.com/defense/acc-chief-stealth-incredibly-important-next-usaf-fighter ACC Chief: Stealth ‘Incredibly Important’ For Next USAF Fighter] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213203440/http://aviationweek.com/defense/acc-chief-stealth-incredibly-important-next-usaf-fighter |date=2015-02-13}} – Aviationweek.com, 12 February 2015

In March 2015, the Navy revealed they were working with the Air Force to potentially release joint analysis of alternatives (AoA) in 2016 for their next-generation fighters; they are allowed to take a joint AoA, then define a service solution that would be good for each service. The Navy is focusing on replacing the capabilities of the fighter with a wide range of options for the Super Hornet, as well as the EA-18G Growler. The AoA will run parallel to several other design and technology efforts including engine technology, airframe molds, broadband and IR stealth, and new ways to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. Part of the Navy's calculus will be based on how the F-35C performs as a critical forward sensor node for the carrier air wing. How the fifth-generation F-35C integrates with the rest of the air wing to give greater capabilities than what the platform itself can do may lend itself to the sixth-generation F/A-XX.[http://news.usni.org/2015/03/27/navy-and-air-force-planning-joint-exploration-of-next-generation-fighter-follow-ons-to-f-22-and-fa-18 Navy and Air Force Planning Joint Exploration of Next Generation Fighter Follow Ons to F-22 and F/A-18E/F] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150331205222/http://news.usni.org/2015/03/27/navy-and-air-force-planning-joint-exploration-of-next-generation-fighter-follow-ons-to-f-22-and-fa-18 |date=2015-03-31}}, USNI, 27 March 2015 The Navy aircraft is to have greatly increased speed and range compared to the Super Hornet.{{cite web |url= https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/does-navy-secretly-want-f-14-tomcat-back-35392 |title=Does the Navy Secretly Want the F-14 Tomcat Back? |date=7 November 2018 |website=The National Interest |access-date= 29 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181121120015/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/does-navy-secretly-want-f-14-tomcat-back-35392 |archive-date=21 November 2018 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}}

In April 2015, the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA) released a report concluding that the next-generation U.S. Air Force fighter should be larger and more resembling a bomber than a small, maneuverable traditional fighter. It analyzed over 1,450 air-to-air engagements since 1965 and found that long-range weapons and sensors have dramatically decreased instances of dogfighting. With the increase of air defense systems using electronic and infrared sensors and high-speed weapons, traditional designs relying on small size, high speed, and maneuverability may be less relevant and easier to intercept. As a result, the CSBA suggests building a fighter significantly larger relying on enhanced sensors, signature control, networked situational awareness, and very-long-range weapons to complete engagements before being detected or tracked. Larger planes would have greater range that would enable them to be stationed further from a combat zone, have greater radar and IR detection capabilities, and carry bigger and longer-range missiles (Long-Range Engagement Weapon). One airframe could be fitted with various attachments to fill several roles. The concept of a small number of large, intercontinental and heavily armed combat aircraft could link itself to the development of the Long Range Strike Bomber.[http://breakingdefense.com/2015/04/should-future-fighter-be-like-a-bomber-groundbreaking-csba-study/ Should Future Fighter Be Like A Bomber? Groundbreaking CSBA Study] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414053845/http://breakingdefense.com/2015/04/should-future-fighter-be-like-a-bomber-groundbreaking-csba-study/ |date=2015-04-14}} – Breakingdefense.com, 8 April 2015

In November 2016, the USAF Scientific Advisory Board announced studies for a Penetrating Counter Air (PCA) platform that would combine long range, supersonic speed, stealth and maneuverability; and be fielded by 2030.{{cite news |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/air-force-scientific-advisory-board-takes-second-loo-431023/ |title=Air Force Scientific Advisory Board takes second look at Penetrating Counterair |last1=Giangreco |first1=Leigh |date=1 November 2016 |website=www.flightglobal.com |publisher=Flightglobal.com |access-date=17 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104094313/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/air-force-scientific-advisory-board-takes-second-loo-431023/ |archive-date=4 November 2016 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}} PCA would have substantially longer range to fly long distances over the Pacific, especially in a situation where airbases in the vicinity of China are not available{{cite web |url=https://thediplomat.com/2017/07/securing-us-bases-in-the-pacific-a-new-era-of-instability/ |title=Securing US Bases in the Pacific: A New Era of Instability? |author=Robert Farley |website=The Diplomat |access-date=29 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232651/https://thediplomat.com/2017/07/securing-us-bases-in-the-pacific-a-new-era-of-instability/ |archive-date=20 June 2018 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}} or if aerial tankers are destroyed.{{cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/penetrating-counter-air-what-comes-after-the-f-22-raptor-f-18081|title=Penetrating Counter-Air: What Comes After the F-22 Raptor and F-15C Eagle|first=Dave|last=Majumdar|date=18 October 2016|website=The National Interest|access-date=29 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181229171534/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/penetrating-counter-air-what-comes-after-the-f-22-raptor-f-18081|archive-date=29 December 2018|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}} It would also escort bombers deep into Russia or China, where the anticipated threat includes advanced networked air defense radars. It would include stealth against low or very high frequency radars (like those of the S-400 missile system),{{cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/russias-s-400-way-more-dangerous-you-think-24116|title=Russia's S-400 Is Way More Dangerous Than You Think|first=Stephen|last=Bryen|date=18 January 2018|website=The National Interest|access-date=29 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181229171600/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/russias-s-400-way-more-dangerous-you-think-24116|archive-date=29 December 2018|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}} which requires an airframe with no vertical stabilizers. Another requirement is significantly larger payload than current air superiority aircraft like the F-22. Adaptive cycle engine technology is an option under consideration for the PCA,{{cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/lockheed-martin-wants-merge-f-22-f-35-1-fighter-japan-it-25509|title=Lockheed Martin Wants to Merge an F-22 and F-35 Into 1 Fighter for Japan. It Won't Happen.|first=Dave|last=Majumdar|date=20 April 2018|website=The National Interest|access-date=29 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181229171611/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/lockheed-martin-wants-merge-f-22-f-35-1-fighter-japan-it-25509|archive-date=29 December 2018|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}} given the fact that the alternative would be a very large aircraft.

While current engines operate best at a single point in the flight envelope, sixth-generation engines are expected to have a variable cycle to give optimum efficiency at any speed or altitude, giving greater range, faster acceleration, and greater subsonic cruise efficiency. The engine would configure itself to act like a turbojet at supersonic speeds, while performing like a high-bypass turbofan for efficient cruising at slower speeds; the ability to supercruise will likely be available to aircraft with this engine type. The technology is being developed by the Air Force under the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP) and by the Navy under its Variable Cycle Advanced Technology (VCAT) program. The Air Force is aiming for a Milestone A decision by 2018, with a production version to be ready possibly by 2021. Companies involved with next-generation engine development include General Electric and Pratt & Whitney.{{Citation |url= http://news.usni.org/2014/06/23/next-generation-engine-work-points-future-u-s-fighter-designs |title= Next Generation Engine Work Points to Future U.S. Fighter Designs |publisher= USNI |date= 23 June 2014 |access-date= 23 June 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140625183540/http://news.usni.org/2014/06/23/next-generation-engine-work-points-future-u-s-fighter-designs |archive-date= 25 June 2014 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}} Risk reduction began in 2012 so that engine development can start around 2020. An engine is to be ready when fighters are introduced by the Navy in 2028 and the Air Force in 2032.{{Citation |url= http://aviationweek.com/blog/6th-gen-engines-pratt-rolls-out-ge-stays |title= 6th Gen Engines – Pratt In, Rolls Out, GE Stays On |newspaper= Aviation Week |date= 17 September 2012 |access-date= 23 May 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140523230700/http://aviationweek.com/blog/6th-gen-engines-pratt-rolls-out-ge-stays |archive-date= 23 May 2014 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all}}

The Air Force is interested in lasers both for low-power illumination and as higher-powered weapons. In November 2013, the Air Force Research Laboratory released a request for information (RFI) for submissions with detailed descriptions in a militarily useful configuration, potential problems and solutions, and cost estimates.{{Citation |url= http://news.usni.org/2013/11/20/air-force-seeks-laser-weapons-next-generation-fighters |title= Air Force Seeks Laser Weapons for Next Generation Fighters |publisher= USNI |date= 20 November 2013 |access-date= 13 January 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140116130304/http://news.usni.org/2013/11/20/air-force-seeks-laser-weapons-next-generation-fighters |archive-date= 16 January 2014 |url-status = live |df= dmy-all}}

• Fifth-generation fighter: The current generation.
• Jet fighter generations: The generations, from first to sixth.

{{Reflist}}

• David Baker; Fifth Generation Fighters, Mortons, 2018. Chapter 18, "Enter the Sixth".

• [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPrWm6fWuaM The Race for 6th Generation Fighters - Drones, Lasers & Future Air Dominance] Perun, YouTube

{{Jet Fighter Generations}}

6th generation

Category:21st century in technology

Category:Sixth-generation jet fighters