US Unveils Details of Sixth-Generation Fighter F-47: Flight Speed Exceeds Mach 2, Unit Cost Reaches $300 Million

On May 17, the US officially disclosed more details about the highly anticipated sixth-generation fighter jet F-47 and its accompanying unmanned “Collaborative Combat Aircraft” (CCA). According to an infographic shared by the US Air Force Chief of Staff on social media, the F-47 is expected to have a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles and a flight speed surpassing Mach 2.

The F-47 and two CCA variants are planned to achieve operational capability between 2025 and 2029. This project is part of the US “Next Generation Air Dominance” (NGAD) program. Despite making progress, the project was temporarily paused and reviewed due to the estimated unit cost reaching approximately $300 million (over 2.1 billion RMB).

Former US President Donald Trump previously stated that the F-47 would be equipped with the most advanced stealth technology, top-tier speed and maneuverability, and is expected to become the world’s most advanced, powerful, and lethal fighter jet. He also revealed that after intense competition, the Air Force awarded the contract to Boeing.

As technical details are gradually released, the F-47 project not only showcases the forefront capabilities of the US aerospace industry but also highlights the high costs and challenges involved in developing future fighter jets.