The U.S. Air Force has officially begun construction of its first F-47 fighter, with Boeing leading the program. The advanced sixth-generation jet is projected to take its initial flight in 2028, according to Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin, who made the announcement at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference.
Rapid Progress on Development
Boeing began manufacturing the aircraft within months of being awarded the contract in March. Allvin praised the team’s speed and commitment, emphasizing the urgency of the program:
“We’re ready to go fast. We have to go fast.”
The F-47 is being developed as part of a broader family of systems that will ensure U.S. dominance in the air for decades to come.
Design and Capabilities
Previously known as the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, the F-47 will eventually replace the F-22 Raptor. While many details remain classified, the aircraft is expected to feature:
- Advanced stealth technology
- New-generation weapons and engines
- Integration with autonomous drone wingmen, known as collaborative combat aircraft
In May, Allvin revealed that the F-47 will boast a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles and speeds over Mach 2 (1,500+ mph).
Procurement Plans
The Air Force plans to acquire at least 185 F-47s, a fleet size comparable to or larger than the existing F-22 inventory. Allvin stressed that maintaining overwhelming air superiority is critical for future conflicts, stating:
“It’s not enough just to be able to stick the jab. You’ve got to be able to let your adversary know you can put them on the canvas.”
Workforce Dedication
During his keynote, Allvin highlighted the enthusiasm of the workforce behind the program. He shared footage of Boeing employees at the company’s St. Louis fighter production facility, cheering upon learning that President Donald Trump would announce Boeing as the builder of the F-47.
Allvin praised their dedication:
“Those aren’t people who just show up to work. Those are people who are committed to do something great for the nation.”
He added that across the nation — from shop floors to labs to flightlines — American workers are driving the future of air dominance.
With the F-47 now entering production, the Air Force is taking a major step toward ensuring next-generation air superiority.
Backed by advanced technology, ambitious performance goals, and a dedicated workforce, the program is positioned to become the cornerstone of U.S. air power well into the future.
