Navy’s Stealth Fighter Development Stalled Amid Concerns

In March, the U.S. Air Force introduced the new F-47 stealth fighter from Boeing. But a question lingers: where’s the Navy’s latest carrier-based aircraft?

About 15 years ago, the American Navy began a covert project in Japan to create a long-range stealth aircraft capable of intelligence gathering from China and launching from carriers. This new aircraft, still termed F/A-XX as experimental, is designed like a fighter-bomber, integrated with AI to assist drones in combat, and boasts impressive range capabilities aimed at deterring China.

Now, the experimental F/A-XX is reportedly ready for action. Boeing and Northrop Grumman have conducted test flights with their respective prototypes, which are currently housed in secure hangars—likely in Missouri and Florida.

However, the Pentagon has yet to finalize decisions regarding its purchase, leading to unexpected and alarming delays.

Congress is pushing for naval aircraft and has allocated close to $1 billion to hasten F/A-XX’s development. Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), chairman of the House Defense Appropriations subcommittee, expressed concern over the urgency: “The U.S. Navy needs a sixth-generation fighter, and hesitation in acquiring one puts us at risk against China,” he stated on May 14.

Meanwhile, the Navy’s current F/A-18EF has been operational for nearly three decades, attacking various targets in the Middle East. Recent missions, like those against Houthi missile bases in Yemen, showcase its capabilities. Yet in high-stakes Pacific scenarios, Navy pilots require updated aircraft.

President Trump now has the chance to select the best option for the Navy.

Here are a few essential details about the Navy’s secret projects:

• Delta Wing Design: The Navy has restricted photos of the F/A-XX. Nevertheless, concept art released suggests a sleek, stealthy design, similar to the F-35, featuring a diamond-shaped wing that enhances both lift and range.
• Impressive Range: In April, the Navy cited a range for the F/A-XX that could exceed current fighters by at least 25%, with estimates reaching up to 1,000 miles. With aerial refueling and long-range missiles, it could dominate engagements across the Pacific.
• Dual Engine System: Unlike the single-engine F-35C, the Navy insists on a two-engine setup for safety over water. This design hides its engines to limit heat signatures, with American technology surpassing Chinese in thermal management.
• Stealth Technology: Past stealth aircraft featured black coatings for radar absorption, but trends are shifting toward gray, reflecting modern stealth approaches like those used in the B-21 Raider bomber.
• Cavity for Armament: The F/A-XX is expected to incorporate a bomb bay that can house long-range missiles, maintaining stealth by keeping armaments hidden inside the aircraft.
• Drone Support: The Navy plans to use refueling drones, akin to the MQ-25 Stingray, to back stealth missions. While drones can’t replace pilots, the F/A-XX will also manage these drones in battle scenarios.

President Trump is undoubtedly aware of the importance of stealth in military operations, particularly after the B-2’s success against Iranian nuclear facilities. However, it remains uncertain if the risks imposed by delaying F/A-XX development have been adequately communicated to him.

It’s crucial to note that China showcased a stealth demonstrator capable of carrier landings over a year ago. Recently, they commissioned the Fujian—a third aircraft carrier surpassing the USS Gerald R. Ford in size and developing another that will be nuclear-powered. In just a few years, China could possess up to six carriers, presenting a significant strategic challenge.

Ultimately, the Navy urgently requires this long-range stealth fighter. The goal is to integrate long-range missile capabilities to enhance carrier strike power against China in the Pacific.

If the F/A-XX is not developed, the effectiveness of carrier missions is likely to be compromised in the future.

The moment for decisive action has come and gone.