The NGAD Fighter Might Be Set to Crash and Burn Thanks to 1 Word

Cost: The Air Force’s ambitious Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter program has been paused due to staggering costs and concerns over outdated design elements.

-Initially projected at $300 million per aircraft, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall halted the program to reassess its feasibility, especially given budget constraints and rapidly evolving threats.

-The NGAD, intended to replace the F-22, may see major design changes to lower costs, potentially leading to a smaller, single-engine fighter.