US Air Force Pauses 6th Gen Air Dominance Program for Strategic Review

 The Secretary of the US Air Force Frank Kendall announced on July 30, 2024, that the Air Force is pausing their Next Gen Air Dominance program (NGAD) to reassess its strategy and direction.

 
Kendall reaffirmed the commitment to developing a sixth-generation, crewed fighter aircraft under the NGAD initiative. He also mentioned that the NGAD could be "optionally crewed," similar to the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, as the technology for fully uncrewed fighters is not yet mature.

The NGAD is envisioned as a "family of systems" that includes a crewed fighter capable of controlling up to six Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs).
the future of the NGAD came under scrutiny during a June event and again at the Paris Air Show. Kendall and other leaders highlighted the need to reassess the program's escalating costs, which are projected to reach "multiple hundreds of millions" per aircraft.

Kendall also emphasized the challenges posed by China's advancements in air combat technology and missile capabilities, underscoring the need for the Air Force to adapt its operational strategies.
This strategic pause reflects a broader rethinking within the Air Force about maintaining technological and cost-effectiveness in a rapidly evolving military landscape.