ComNavOps has long proposed a very long range fighter
aircraft for the Navy. One of the
persistent objections has been that it is physically impossible to achieve the
desired 1000+ nm combat radius (see, "Long Range Carrier Fighter") despite the overwhelming evidence that it is eminently
possible. Well, now it appears that the
military agrees with me as evidenced by the requirements for the new F-47 under
development. Amazingly, for modern
times, at least, the prototype is due for first flight in 2028.
AF wouldn’t be making the claim if they (and industry) didn’t think they could do it. Of course, claims are just that and nothing is proven until demonstrated. However, we have sufficient examples of very long range aircraft from decades ago to expect that today’s more efficient engines and better aerodynamics should deliver the range we want.
We also need to ensure that firepower, speed, stealth, and
maneuverability also join with range to make a truly formidable fighter. Range, alone, will not make an air
superiority fighter … but it’s a good start!
Let’s hope the military doesn’t try to turn the F-47 into a
do-everything, nothing well abomination.
Make it a fighter and leave it alone.
This is encouraging if yet premature.
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The Air Force has said the F-47 will have a combat radius of more than 1,000 nautical miles and be capable of flying at speeds greater than Mach 2. That would make the aircraft’s combat radius nearly double that of the F-22.[1]
AF wouldn’t be making the claim if they (and industry) didn’t think they could do it. Of course, claims are just that and nothing is proven until demonstrated. However, we have sufficient examples of very long range aircraft from decades ago to expect that today’s more efficient engines and better aerodynamics should deliver the range we want.
https://redstate.com/wardclark/2026/02/26/air-forces-new-f-47-fighter-hits-stride-for-2028-takeoff-n2199600
