Next Generation Air Dominance is a development and acquisition program for a future sixth generation air superiority fighter to replace the US Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet beginning in 2025. It is planned to incorporate sixth generation stealth capability. The aircraft is to be operated with or without a pilot, depending on the role. The new fighter is to perform strike, air superiority, ground support, precision bombing and reconnaissance roles. Only Boeing is known to have interest in the program though Northrop Grumman is known to be developing a carrier-based aircraft known as the X-47B. A 1/16 scale model shown at the Navy League Sea Air Space Exposition 2010 shows a 'Flying wing' design with no vertical tails and twin engines.
In late 2011, the Navy plans to analyze alternatives for the NGAD program with a technology demonstration phase beginning in 2013. One of the alternatives being considered is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, which would double the Navy's purchase of that aircraft.
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