Lockheed Martin intends to modernize its fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet and thus compete with Boeing's new F-47, a sixth-generation fighter that the United States plans to purchase as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, The War Zone reports.
Lockheed Martin aims to create a "5+ generation" version of the F-35 that will have about 80% of the F-47's capabilities, while the upgraded aircraft is expected to be half the price.
This approach could maintain demand for the F-35 for decades to come while at the same time convincing the US government of its feasibility amid the extremely expensive new developments.
The updated F-35 is expected to receive new materials and a modified hull shape, improved electronic warfare systems, modern sensors (including passive ones), as well as autonomous functions that will allow it to detect targets faster, remain unnoticed, and effectively destroy the enemy.
As you know, the F-35 has become a kind of flagship of modern military aviation in the Western world. If the modernization is successful, the Lockheed Martin fighter will be able not only to maintain its position, but also to become an alternative to the F-47 - in case the latter turns out to be too expensive or too complicated to produce and operate.
Lockheed Martin previously lost to Boeing in a bid to provide the primary fighter jet for the NGAD program, but the company is not appealing the decision. The manufacturer also sells other products to the U.S. government, from drones to weapons control systems. A formal protest could jeopardize those contracts.
In March 2025, US President Donald Trump announced that Boeing was the winner of the NGAD 6th generation fighter development program.