USAF's Next-Gen Fighter Jet, Designed to Replace the F-22 Raptor, to Cost $300 Million Each

The United States Air Force (USAF) is pushing the boundaries of aviation technology with its secretive Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. Developed to replace the iconic F-22 Raptor in the 2030s, the NGAD will redefine the skies with its advanced systems and jaw-dropping price tag.

A Family of Systems​

The NGAD isn't just about a single aircraft. This ambitious program envisions a "family of systems" where a crewed centerpiece fighter jet is accompanied by unmanned collaborative combat aircraft. These loyal robotic wingmen will significantly expand the fighter's tactical capabilities through manned-unmanned teaming.

Cutting-Edge Propulsion​

At the core of the NGAD fighter will be a next-generation adaptive propulsion (NGAP) engine. This technological marvel is designed not only for exceptional thrust but also to generate substantial electrical power, crucial for the futuristic systems the NGAD will employ. Variable-cycle technology is key, allowing the engine to adapt to flight conditions for optimal performance and cooling.

Shrouded in Secrecy​

True to cutting-edge military development, specific details of the NGAD remain closely guarded secrets. Expect the aircraft to be a master of stealth, utilizing advanced low-observable technologies to minimize its presence on radar.

When coupled with anticipated long-range, high-performance missiles, the NGAD stands poised to be a decisive force in air-to-air combat.

The Price of Innovation​

Such advanced technology demands a substantial investment. The estimated cost for a single NGAD fighter jet is an eye-watering $300 million.

The program as a whole is projected to require a $16 billion commitment for research, development, testing, and evaluation over the next five years. This massive expenditure reinforces the USAF's determination to dominate the skies long into the future.

 

[Anant]

$75Mln is the price FAF paid for Rafale F3, so $75Mln is not unreasonable price, so do you mean that
Dassault didn't add any margin in the $75Mln it charged FAF.

I agree that 300 million USD is atrocious. However, you cannot also then go and tell them to sell you stuff at cost price.

France's most recent order for Rafales was 42 Rafale F4s for some 5.5 billion USD, which works out to 131 million USD per jet. Even if you assume Dassault has placed a 50% margin on that, the cost comes to 87.3 million USD. How do you get the 75 million figure, then?

That is keeping aside standard profit margins, export margins, etc. France generally sells stuff that is more expensive, but still...

 

[VeeRay]

And it is important to understand that the research and development which is available to peruse, is at least one model behind the current model under investigation.