US’ first sixth-gen fighter jet to fly in 2028, prototype development underway

Boeing has begun building prototypes of the U.S. Air Force’s sixth-generation stealth fighter, the F-47.

Officials say the program remains on track for a first flight in 2028, moving into physical testing.

The F-47 is meant to replace the F-22 and serve as a command platform in a networked combat system.

The aircraft underscores a shift toward manned-unmanned teaming, AI-assisted operations, and longer-range combat in the Indo-Pacific.