Enabling technologies for future sixth-generation jet fighter may include artificial intelligence (AI)

April 29, 2021
Developers recognize that the F-35 can achieve future breakthroughs in performance with software upgrades and other kinds of technological adaptations.

WASHINGTON – A massive and still largely unknown technology breakthrough may be upon us, by the apparent Air Force decision not only to fast-track a new sixth-generation jet fighter, but also actually to fly it. Kris Osborn at The National Interest reports. Continue reading original article

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

29 April 2021 -- While technical details are closely held for security reasons, sufficient breakthroughs in enabling technologies have occurred to inspire a decision to build and fly a new stealth fighter jet.

Developers are immersed in technological research into 6th-Gen fighter technologies like building stealthy airframes, artificial intelligence (AI), miniaturized long-range sensors, targeting technology, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating with ever-increasing levels of autonomy.

Technologies in development for the future sixth-generation jet fighter include radar-evading coatings, thermal-signature reduction, high-speed course-correcting weapons, AI-enabled sensors, and high-performance networking.

Related: Top enabling technologies for the warfighter in the 2020s

Related: Is it better to focus on tomorrow's technology when considering 5th- or 6th-generation jet fighter planes?

Related: Britain's Tempest sixth-generation jet fighter will have high-speed radar, artificial intelligence (AI)

John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!