As the US Air Force revisits its plans for the next-generation fighter jet, NGAD, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall revealed today that the plane may not be tasked with controlling a fleet of loyal wingman drones, as originally envisioned.
Kendall, speaking at the Air and Space Forces Association Air, Space & Cyber annual conference, stated that while the service is moving towards greater reliance on unmanned aircraft, the role of NGAD in controlling Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones remains uncertain.
This shift in thinking comes after the Air Force paused development of NGAD to re-evaluate its core assumptions. The service has even questioned the necessity of a human pilot on board. Kendall clarified that a manned fighter jet would be necessary for controlling CCAs, stating, „I don’t see us going away from that combination anytime soon.”
He also provided new details about the operation of CCAs, which are expected to be fielded by the end of the decade. The Air Force initially envisioned a single fighter controlling three to five CCAs, but they are now considering larger numbers of drones.
Kendall acknowledged the ethical concerns associated with arming CCAs, particularly emphasizing the need for tight control. He outlined operational limits, emphasizing the importance of line-of-sight communications between the fighter and CCAs. This direct link ensures that the drones can be controlled and recalled if communications are lost.
„We’re not going to have aircraft going out and doing engagements uncontrolled,” Kendall said, emphasizing that a loss of communication would trigger a return to base, preventing uncontrolled actions. „So we don’t want that to happen. And when they do do engagements, we want them under tight control.”
Despite the stalled development of NGAD, a decision on the future of the program is expected within the next few months. Balancing cost and capability remains a key factor, with the Air Force aiming for a price target comparable to the F-35. However, Kendall acknowledged that more expensive options might be necessary if they offer greater effectiveness.
Kendall also highlighted the need to consider NGAD within a broader context, including the role of a next-generation tanker and future tranches of CCAs. However, he also acknowledged that securing funding for the program might be the most significant hurdle.
„Then by the way, we’ve got to figure out how we’re going to pay for it, which I think may, at the end of the day, be our biggest problem,” Kendall said.
