Introduction to the DefenceDetective Newsletter
The DefenceDetective Newsletter provides weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy. In a recent interview, U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Daniel Cheever, also known as the service’s “Air Boss,” expressed his eagerness to acquire a new F/A-XX next-generation carrier-based fighter, despite the uncertainty surrounding the program.
The F/A-XX Program
The F/A-XX program aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter to replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and E/A-18G Growler. Boeing and Northrop Grumman are the remaining contenders for the program. However, the Pentagon announced in June that it would freeze the program indefinitely to avoid competition for resources with the USAF’s F-47 program. This decision has been met with pushback from senior Navy officials and members of Congress, who argue that the F/A-XX program is critical to ensuring the Navy’s carrier air wings can continue to project power in the face of growing threats.
The Importance of the F/A-XX Program
Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations, has stated that the ability to maintain air superiority against peer competitors will be put at risk if the Navy is unable to field a sixth-generation strike fighter on a relevant timeline. The F/A-XX program is seen as critical to addressing this risk and ensuring the Navy’s carrier air wings can continue to project power in the face of growing threats.
The MQ-25 Stingray Program
The MQ-25 Stingray program is a top priority for the Navy, with the goal of developing a carrier-based uncrewed tanker to provide organic tanker capacity to the Navy’s carrier air wings. The MQ-25 is expected to fly for the first time this year and reach initial operational capability (IOC) in Fiscal Year 2027. The program has suffered delays and cost growth, but the Navy sees the MQ-25 as a key capability that will unlock manned-unmanned teaming on the aircraft carrier.
Future Plans for Uncrewed Capabilities
The Navy is following the lead of the Air Force and the U.S. Marine Corps in plans for future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) ‘loyal wingman’ type drones. The Navy has expressed a “strong interest” in the MQ-28 Ghost Bat, which was originally developed by Boeing’s subsidiary in Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The Navy’s CCA plans are still in development, but the service sees the MQ-25 as a springboard to adding more uncrewed capabilities to its carrier air wings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the DefenceDetective Newsletter provides valuable insights into the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy. The F/A-XX program is critical to ensuring the Navy’s carrier air wings can continue to project power in the face of growing threats, and the MQ-25 Stingray program is a key capability that will unlock manned-unmanned teaming on the aircraft carrier. As the Navy continues to develop its plans for future uncrewed capabilities, it is clear that the service is committed to modernizing its carrier air wings to address the emerging threats of the 21st century.
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