The U.S. Air Force has officially begun production of the F-47 Stealth Fighter, a sixth-generation fighter jet developed by Boeing. Air Force Commander General David Allvin stated that the speed of the project is crucial and that the first flight is expected in 2028.
U.S. Begins F-47 Production
Boeing has accelerated production of this air superiority fighter, which will replace the F-22 Raptor. Allvin stated that the Boeing team began production immediately after being selected. The F-47 will be equipped with advanced stealth technologies, modern sensors, powerful engines, and autonomous drones. The aircraft is expected to have a speed exceeding Mach 2 and a range of 1,000 nautical miles (approximately 1,852 km).
U.S. Air Force budget documents indicate that development could last until 2030. However, officials say the aircraft could become operational sooner. Boeing has expanded its facilities in St. Louis for F-47 production.
Allvin expressed this determination by saying, “They’ve already started production on the first part. We’re ready to move quickly, we must move quickly.” The Air Force plans to have a fleet of at least 185 aircraft. This number will be equivalent to the current F-22 fleet. Allvin emphasized that this aircraft is a central platform for the US’s future air superiority.
The aircraft’s design and capabilities are designed to offer a broader range of missions than the F-22. The F-47 is expected to excel in both air-to-air combat and precision ground target operations.
With the completion of flight testing and operational integration, the F-47 is expected to represent a significant leap forward in US air power. Furthermore, this next-generation US aircraft is considered a response to similar programs by rivals such as China and Russia.
