Overview
- The FY26 package reported by defense outlets directs $3.5 billion in base funding plus $900 million in reconciliation, totaling $4.4 billion to speed development.
- Program timelines reported by coverage target a first prototype flight in 2028 with limited production starting around 2029.
- Planning figures cited in recent reports envision roughly 185 aircraft at an estimated $300 million per jet, though quantities and unit costs remain unconfirmed.
- Articles describe claimed capabilities including Mach 2+ supercruise, an unrefueled combat radius of about 1,000 nautical miles, advanced sensor fusion and AI, and the ability to manage drone wingmen under the CCA effort.
- Budget shifts highlighted in the reporting cut total FY26 F‑35 purchases to 47 aircraft, add 21 F‑15EXs, fund 1,000+ CCAs and $10 billion for Pacific posture, while critics warn the F‑47’s cost and complexity could crowd out affordable mass and urge reconsideration of the program.