The US Air Force has released the first specifications of the sixth-generation fighter F-47, developed by Boeing. This was reported by Defense Express with reference to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force David Ellwin. Unlike the multifunctional F-16 and F-35, the new aircraft will have a narrow specialization - gaining air superiority.
According to the specifications released by General Ellwin, one of the most impressive features of the F-47 is its combat radius of more than 1,000 miles. This is significantly greater than that of modern fighters and brings the new aircraft closer to the performance of tactical bombers. This range will reduce the need for aerial tankers and ensure their safety by keeping them away from the front lines.
The aircraft will also have a top speed of over Mach 2 and an enhanced stealth rating, designated Stealth++. This means its radar signature will be even lower than that of the F-22 and F-35.
In addition, the US Air Force plans to purchase fighter drones to support the F-47 in combat. There are two models currently in the pipeline: the General Atomics YFQ-42A and the Anduril YFQ-44A. They will have a combat radius of over 1,100 km and will also specialize in gaining air superiority.
The U.S. Air Force plans to purchase more than 185 F-47s, as well as more than 1,000 unmanned fighter jets to operate with them. The F-47s and the latest drones are scheduled to enter service between 2025 and 2029.