// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
NGAD
NGAD, or Next-Generation Air Dominance, is a highly classified U.S. Air Force program aimed at developing a new 'system of systems' to ensure air superiority in future conflicts. It involves creating advanced manned aircraft, drones, sensors, and networking to counter sophisticated threats.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is a United States Air Force initiative focused on developing a multi-domain 'system of systems' for future air warfare, encompassing manned sixth-generation combat aircraft, Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), advanced sensors, command & control, and weapons, designed to ensure persistent air superiority against peer adversaries by leveraging open architectures and rapid technological insertion.
BACKGROUND
The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) is a United States Air Force (USAF) initiative that aims to field systems to succeed the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor in the air superiority mission. These include a sixth-generation crewed fighter aircraft, dubbed the Penetrating Counter-Air (PCA) platform, and uncrewed collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) operating in a manned-unmanned teaming concept.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Next-Gen Air Dominance
- Sixth-Gen Fighter (component)
- Future Air Superiority System
- PCA (Penetrating Counter Air)
- Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)
USAGE NOTE
NGAD is often misunderstood as a single aircraft, but it is a complex 'system of systems' integrating various platforms and technologies for future air warfare, distinct from the Navy's F/A-XX.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to NGAD.
The advanced development program division of Lockheed Martin, known for developing cutting-edge aircraft and stealth technologies, making it a prime candidate for NGAD development.
Boeing's division for advanced prototyping and development, working on next-generation aerospace systems, including potential contributions to the NGAD program.
A leading global aerospace and defense technology company, recognized for its expertise in stealth aircraft, advanced sensors, and integrated systems critical for future air dominance concepts.
A major developer and manufacturer of advanced aircraft engines, essential for providing the propulsion systems required by next-generation air dominance platforms.
A leading provider of jet engines and aviation systems for military aircraft, playing a vital role in developing advanced propulsion technologies for programs like NGAD.
Specializes in developing advanced sensors, radars, avionics, and effectors that are crucial components for the situational awareness, targeting, and weapon systems of NGAD platforms.
A leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) development, which are expected to be integral components of the NGAD 'family of systems' approach.
A U.S. Department of Defense agency responsible for the development of emerging technologies for use by the military, often funding foundational research that informs programs like NGAD.
The primary scientific research and development center for the U.S. Air Force, responsible for delivering future warfighting capabilities, including those supporting the NGAD vision.