The U.S. Air Force is pursuing advanced modernization programs, including the NGAD sixth-generation fighter, CCA drone swarms, and the NGAS refueling system, to maintain air superiority amid potential conflict with China.

The Navy's decision could shield the F/A-XX program from the impacts of the Air Force's NGAD review, especially as the source selection process is ongoing, with a winner expected next year. Similarly to the U.

The following is the Nov. 4, 2024, Congressional Research Service In Focus report, U.S. Air Force Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Fighter. From the report Background U.S. Air Force officials say they have paused a contract award for the Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter as they rethink the aircraft’s requirements.

China’s Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) recently unveiled the White Emperor (see image above), or Baidi, at the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, hinting at a potential sixth-generation fighter for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.