Lockheed Martin excluded from the development of the sixth generation NGAD fighter

Lockheed Martin is no longer involved in the development of a sixth-generation fighter aircraft for the US Navy under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) programme.

Here's What We Know

This was a significant blow to Lockheed, which is the manufacturer of the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jet and has long been a key player in the development of advanced combat aircraft for the US military. After its suspension, the competition for the contract narrowed to two companies - Boeing and Northrop Grumman.

The F-35 fighter jet. Illustration: ВПС США

The US Navy's NGAD programme envisages the creation of a stealthy combat aircraft, the F/A-XX, capable of providing air dominance. It will have an extended range, endurance and the ability to integrate with drones and deck-based air defence systems. It is expected to replace the aging F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and complement the F-35.

Despite the removal from the naval programme, Lockheed Martin still has the opportunity to work on the sixth generation fighter for the US Air Force under the same programme.

A contract for the F/A-XX could be awarded this year, although the timing and cost of the programme remain classified.

Source: Breaking Defence