Development of the sixth-generation F-47 fighter is scheduled to be completed within the next two years, with the first flight in 2028. The U.S. Air Force notes that creation of the next-generation combat aircraft is proceeding well, according to General Dale White, who oversees critical weapons systems including F-47.
"We're doing exceptionally well," Air and Space Forces Magazine quotes him. Boeing has done a really good job of building up personnel capacity. In the early stages of such programs, you typically see personnel increases in accordance with the schedule and tasks to be completed. They have handled this very well — White states, emphasizing that the F-47 project is currently meeting established deadlines.
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It is noted that the first aircraft is already in production at Boeing's factory. We really gained an advantage at the start of this program, which over time has yielded tremendous results
This positive Boeing assessment came amid a series of problems with various projects that have afflicted the company in recent years. Boeing closed 2024 with nearly $12 billion in losses, began asset sales last year, and continued to record losses.
Problems occurred with projects such as KC-46A tankers, in which cracks were discovered, causing large-scale inspection and production shutdown, as well as delays with the T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft project by as much as two years.
The sixth-generation F-47 fighter contract may genuinely be key for the company, becoming either its undisputed success or burying Boeing. Even if everything is currently proceeding exactly on schedule, many underwater rocks may surface later.
As an example, the first flight three years after contract signing represents very tight timelines (even considering Boeing is not starting from scratch and experimental aircraft prototypes existed before the agreement). For comparison, fifth-generation fighters F-22 and F-35 required six and five years respectively.
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