The U.S. Air Force's NGAD Fighter Looks Like a Giant Boondoggle

The U.S. Air Force's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Program has received $4.2 billion in funding since 2015, aimed at developing a Sixth-Generation fighter to replace the discontinued F-22 Raptor. The program focuses on creating a technological ecosystem for air superiority, emphasizing advancements in propulsion, uncrewed systems, materials, and sensors. Despite the significant investment, critics argue that the future of air dominance may lie more in space capabilities than in traditional aircraft. The article suggests that the Pentagon should prioritize space-based defense systems to counter hypersonic threats, as these systems could provide better detection and countermeasures than a new fighter jet. The NGAD Program is projected to receive an additional $11.7 billion between 2024 and 2027, with operational capabilities expected by the 2030s. However, there is growing skepticism about the program's viability, with calls for a strategic shift towards space dominance rather than continuing to invest in expensive air platforms. The author argues that the U.S. must innovate to maintain its military edge, especially as rivals like Russia advance in hypersonic technology. The article concludes that the focus should be on developing comprehensive space-to-air-to-ground capabilities rather than pursuing what may become a redundant and costly fighter program.