These test flights played a critical role in shaping the F-47, the U.S. Air Force’s newest fighter jet.
“For the past five years, the X-planes for this aircraft have been quietly laying the foundation for the F-47 — flying hundreds of hours, testing cutting-edge concepts, and proving that we can push the envelope of technology with confidence,” said General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force.
DARPA’s contribution dates back to 2014, when its Air Dominance Initiative study led to the launch of the Aerospace Innovation Initiative. This long-term investment laid the technical and conceptual groundwork that enabled the F-47’s development.
“It is often only in future decades when DARPA’s disruptive impact can be unveiled – today, we’re proud to be able to share the 10-year DARPA research arc that has culminated in the F-47 program, defining the next era of American air dominance,” said DARPA Acting Director Rob McHenry. The F-47 represents a significant milestone in military aviation, highlighting the strategic role of experimental platforms in defence innovation.
