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| Photo image The War Zone |
The image shows a long, sharp nose, seamless with the fuselage and wings, with air intakes arranged on the back behind the cockpit – a detail that is said to help reduce radar reflection. The design is likely to follow a tailless configuration, combining a two-wheeled nose gear and a specialized arresting hook for aircraft carriers.
In terms of tactical capabilities, the F/A-XX is intended to have a range approximately 25% longer than the F/A-18E/F and F-35C, integrating AESA radar, multi-mode sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), and the ability to control unmanned aircraft through human-machine cooperation (MUM-T). The open architecture allows for the rapid addition of new technologies, from hypersonic missiles to directed energy weapons.
The program is currently in the operational and live-fire testing phase, expected to be completed in the next few years. Lockheed Martin has been eliminated from the race, leaving Boeing and Northrop Grumman to compete. However, budget challenges remain a major obstacle, with the US Navy having to request an additional $1.4 billion for fiscal year 2026 to maintain progress.
The new image of the F/A-XX not only affirms the advancement of 6th generation carrier-based fighter technology but also shows America's determination to maintain air superiority in an increasingly complex maritime combat environment.
