By Olwale Abaire, Warrior Contributor
The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, initiated by the United States Air Force (USAF), is indeed a revolutionary step towards redefining aerial warfare. This NGAD fighter jet represents a defining moment in the history of the United States Air Force (USAF).
The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is believed by many to dominate the skies with unmatched stealth and speed —as a marvel of its time. The NGAD, however, intends to take things a step further.
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall describes the NGAD as a system of systems, where a single pilot, from the comfort of a next-gen cockpit, can take charge of an entire air battle.
Amazing right?
The NGAD incorporates several other elements. These other systems around the NGAD include a crewed fighter aircraft, referred to as the Penetrating Counter-Air (PCA) platform, and uncrewed collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), or loyal wingman platforms, through the manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T). This approach allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in combat scenarios.
Imagine a single pilot maneuvering a technologically superior fighter jet while simultaneously commanding a swarm of attack and reconnaissance drones. This 6th gen fighter jet is expected to control as many as five drones, known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). These drones will test enemy air defenses, blanket high-risk areas with forward surveillance, and deliver weapons.
The intel gathered by the drones feeds directly to the pilot, giving them unparalleled battlefield awareness. This manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) completely rewrites the rules of engagement.
Changing Tactics and Air War Maneuver Formations with the Latest NGAD
The 6th gen fighter jet, with its ability to control multiple drones, is poised to bring significant changes to air war tactics and maneuver formations. The jet will be able to perform operations in denied airspace and establish freedom of maneuver. The drones, acting as surveillance “nodes” and attack drones for offensive missions, will increase attack and reconnaissance options.
Warrior talks to Air Force Research Lab About 6th-Gen
The ability of the NGAD to control drones from the air will reduce latency as it will not require data to be sent through a ground station. This will streamline the transmission of time-sensitive data and massively shorten the sensor-to-shooter time.
Interestingly, the NGAD program aims to develop key technologies around propulsion, stealth, and advanced weapons. Stealth technology will allow the NGAD to evade enemy radar systems, changing the dynamics of air combat by allowing the NGAD to strike without being detected.
The NGAD fighters are expected to be interconnected with other assets, including F-35s, satellites, a secure combat cloud network, air defense nodes, etc. This network-centric warfare approach allows for better situational awareness and coordinated attacks, changing air war tactics.
As we move towards the 2030s, the NGAD program continues to evolve, promising a future where air dominance is achieved through a seamless integration of manned and unmanned systems.
In conclusion, the NGAD program, with its advanced technologies and system-of-systems approach will bring about significant changes in air warfare tactics and formations. However, it’s important to note that these are potential changes, and the actual impact will depend on how these technologies are implemented and integrated into air combat operations come 20235.
OLAWALE ABAIRE is a Warrior contributor, researcher, writer and analyst who has written over 75 nonfiction books.
