General Allvin: “We Must Move Fast, Because Threats Don’t Wait”
The U.S. Air Force has officially begun the production process for the sixth-generation fighter jet, the F-47 Stealth Fighter, developed by Boeing. The program aims for its first flight in 2028.
Critical Statements from Allvin
Air Force Chief General David Allvin, in his opening speech at the Air and Space Forces Conference, said: “In the few months since we announced the F-47, they have begun producing the first components. We are ready to move quickly. We must move quickly.”
Allvin emphasized that the new aircraft will serve as a central platform to secure U.S. air superiority in future conflicts.
Set to Succeed the F-22
Previously referred to as the “Next-Generation Air Dominance” aircraft, the F-47 will replace the F-22 Raptor. The jet will be equipped with advanced stealth capabilities, modern sensors, powerful engines, and systems that can operate in coordination with autonomous drone wingmen.
Technical Specifications and Production Plan
General Allvin stated that the jet will reach speeds above Mach 2 and have a combat radius of over 1,000 nautical miles. According to Air Force documents, the development phase is planned to continue until fiscal year 2030, though officials indicate operational use may begin earlier.
As part of production preparation, Boeing has expanded its fighter jet facilities in St. Louis. The program also aims to field a fleet of at least 185 F-47s, which will be larger than the current F-22 fleet.
Leadership Uncertainty and Continuity
Allvin’s statements coincided with his upcoming retirement. While his successor has not yet been confirmed, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink also spoke at the conference. Meink praised projects like the B-21 Raider while highlighting delays in the Sentinel ICBM program.
Meink stressed that continuity will be maintained despite leadership changes: “In short, there will be no single chief. General Allvin and I will ensure there is a chief.”
