Cost Scrutiny and Evolving Threats Prompt Air Force Review of NGAD Plans

The U.S. Air Force is re-evaluating its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform, which includes future fighters and drones, amid scrutiny over escalating costs and evolving threats, notably from China. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall underscored the need to ensure the right design concept and affordability before committing to the 2026 budget.

The U.S. Air Force is taking a closer look at its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform—an anticipated family of future fighters and drones—before making a final decision, according to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall.

Concern over the NGAD's escalating costs, which have topped $300 million per unit, along with evolving threats such as China's military advancements, was highlighted. Despite cost scrutiny, NGAD's incorporation of drones and Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) remains central to its initiatives.

Speaking at Britain's Royal International Air Tattoo, Kendall emphasized the need for a thorough review to ensure the right design concepts, considering new threats, CCA introductions, and affordability issues. The Air Force is balancing high costs tied to renewing land-based nuclear deterrents and developing the B-21 bomber with the benefits of NGAD.

Kendall indicated that the commitment to the 2026 budget hinges on these reviews. Analysts noted this scrutiny reflects the Air Force's need to adapt NGAD to China's evolving threats, with its timeline extending into the 2030s.

Boeing and Lockheed Martin are seen as contenders for the project's core fighter element. The review also interests Europe, where projects like Britain's GCAP and the FCAS/SCAF initiative by France, Germany, and Spain may undergo similar scrutiny.

GCAP partners are set to provide updates at the Farnborough International Airshow commencement on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)