The Pentagon’s proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget reveals significant developments in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy’s respective programs aimed at developing crewed sixth-generation stealth combat jets. These developments, particularly in requested funding, indicate a strategic shift and allocation of resources within the military branches. The Air Force’s budgetary focus on its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program contrasts with the Navy’s decision to defer spending on its F/A-XX program, reflecting nuanced considerations within each service’s modernization strategy.

Air Force’s Enhanced Funding for NGAD Program

The Air Force’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget request allocates $815 million towards the continued development of its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) jet. This marks a substantial increase from the previous year’s request, reflecting the prioritization of advanced air superiority capabilities within the Air Force’s modernization efforts. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mike Greiner, deputy assistant secretary for Budget, emphasized the significance of this funding during a roundtable discussion preceding the budget rollout. The increased allocation underscores the Air Force’s commitment to advancing the NGAD program, which includes the development and testing of both the air vehicle and associated mission systems.

This heightened focus on NGAD is evident in the year-over-year growth of the Air Force’s budget allocation for the program. From just over $1.9 billion to nearly $2.75 billion, the increased funding underscores the service’s recognition of NGAD as a cornerstone of future air combat capabilities. The establishment of a dedicated NGAD test force and the ongoing engagement with secretive demonstrator aircraft further emphasize the program’s strategic importance and progress towards operationalization.

Navy’s Deferral of Spending on F/A-XX Program

In contrast to the Air Force’s enhanced funding for the NGAD program, the Navy’s budgetary approach for its F/A-XX program reflects a significant course change. The 2025 Fiscal Year budget request includes a decision to defer almost $1 billion in spending on the F/A-XX program, signaling a reevaluation of priorities within the Navy’s aviation modernization efforts. This shift highlights the complexities inherent in balancing near-term operational demands with long-term modernization objectives, particularly within the constraints imposed by the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA).

Implications of Pentagon’s Budgetary Constraints

The unveiling of the Pentagon’s $850 billion proposed budget for the next fiscal cycle underscores the fiscal constraints imposed by the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Air Force and Navy officials have acknowledged the challenges posed by these constraints, emphasizing the need to make tough decisions to balance immediate operational requirements with future modernization efforts. The strategic realignment evident in the budget allocations for the NGAD and F/A-XX programs reflects a broader reassessment of defense priorities in light of evolving threats and fiscal realities.

Discretionary Budget Authority – Numbers may not add due to rounding – ¹ FY 2023 includes supplemental funding for Ukraine ($35.7 billion) and Disaster Relief ($147 million). FY 2024 includes supplemental funding request for Ukraine ($44.4 billion), Israel ($10.6 billion), and Submarine Industrial Base ($3.3 billion). – ² Reflects Continuing Resolution (CR) (P.L. 118-15), as amended

The Pentagon’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget presents a nuanced picture of the U.S. military’s modernization trajectory, with distinct shifts in funding priorities within the Air Force and Navy. The enhanced funding for the NGAD program underscores the Air Force’s commitment to advancing next-generation air superiority capabilities, while the decision to defer spending on the F/A-XX program reflects the Navy’s strategic reassessment within budgetary constraints. As the military navigates the challenges of balancing near-term readiness with long-term modernization, these budgetary decisions will shape the trajectory of U.S. air combat capabilities for years to come.

Image table – 1 Includes Procurement and RDT&E dollars and quantities – Defense Budget Overview – March 2024- United States Department of Defense – Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Request

Strategic Allocation and Prioritization in the FY 2025 Department of Defense Budget Request

The Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget request for the Department of Defense (DoD) is a testament to strategic foresight and alignment with the overarching goals of national security, as outlined in the President’s National Security Strategy. Anchored firmly on the principles established by the 2022 National Defense Strategy (NDS), the request is a clear reflection of the Department’s commitment to defending the nation, caring for its people, and fostering teamwork to ensure success on all fronts.

Financial Overview and Strategic Investments

For FY 2025, the DoD has proposed a budget of $849.8 billion, marking a significant increase over the previous years. This increment, amounting to $33.9 billion or 4.2 percent over the FY 2023 base level and a 4.0 percent increase over the FY 2024 Continuing Resolution (CR), underscores the Department’s dedication to enhancing its warfighting capabilities and ensuring national security. However, it is essential to note that the increase is tempered by the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) of 2023, limiting the growth to a modest $7.8 billion or 0.9 percent over the FY 2024 President’s Budget request.

Amid financial constraints imposed by the FRA, the DoD has strategically opted for targeted reductions in programs that are not expected to enhance the force’s capability until the 2030s. This decision allows for the preservation and enhancement of the Total Force’s immediate combat readiness. Notable adjustments include the rephasing of the Navy’s Next Generation Fighter program, adjustments to the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance program, and scaling back Space Forces’ experimentation efforts. These moves are strategic, ensuring that the budget fosters integrated deterrence and builds enduring advantages that are critical for maintaining the nation’s technological edge, strengthening alliances and partnerships, and supporting servicemembers and their families.

Figure – DoD Budget FY 2010 – FY 2025*

Strategic Management and Performance Improvement

The FY 2025 budget is intricately linked to the 2022 NDS through the FY 2023 – FY 2026 Strategic Management Plan (SMP), focusing on enduring advantages and strengthening management capabilities for successful NDS implementation. A key component of this strategic alignment is the commitment to the financial audit and the implementation of corrective measures to enhance business processes. These initiatives are vital for fostering sustainable reform, improving efficiency and effectiveness, and boosting public confidence in the DoD’s stewardship.

The budget identifies $1.3 billion in savings achieved through Performance Improvement Initiatives, emphasizing Continuous Process Improvements (CPI), Optimization, Reform, and Transformation initiatives. These savings represent a strategic redirection of resources towards higher national defense priorities, demonstrating the DoD’s commitment to financial prudence and strategic reallocation.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

The FY 2025 budget request is positioned within a historical context of fluctuating defense budgets, influenced significantly by the Budget Control Act (BCA) through FY 2021 and the subsequent elimination of the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) request in FY 2022. This historical perspective highlights the Department’s evolving strategies to adapt to financial and geopolitical challenges while maintaining a focus on current and future threats.

The current fiscal environment, characterized by the operation under a Continuing Resolution (CR) and impending sequestration cuts mandated by the FRA, presents significant challenges. The Department faces the daunting task of navigating these financial constraints while ensuring that critical areas such as military manpower are protected from reductions. The potential for across-the-board spending cuts under sequestration threatens to undermine years of progress in readiness and modernization efforts, highlighting the critical need for timely congressional action on appropriations.

A Call for Strategic Foresight and Financial Prudence

The FY 2025 budget request from the DoD is a nuanced and strategic response to the complex interplay of national security needs, financial constraints, and future challenges. By prioritizing investments in technology, people, and partnerships, the Department aims to maintain a credible deterrent force while navigating the fiscal challenges posed by the FRA and potential sequestration. As the United States faces uncertain times, the strategic allocation of resources and the emphasis on efficiency and reform within the DoD budget are more crucial than ever. This approach not only safeguards the nation’s security interests but also ensures that the defense establishment remains a resilient and formidable force in the face of evolving global threats.

Overview – FY 2025 Defense Budget

Historical data is calculated from GDP in OMB’s FY 2024 PB Historical Table 10.1, Gross Domestic Product and Deflators Used in the Historical Tables. FYs 2023 – 2029 are calculated from GDP in OMB’s Economic Assumptions for the 2025 Budget.

Unveiling the Complexities of NGAD and F/A-XX Programs in the 2025 Fiscal Year Budget

The Pentagon’s proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget sheds light on the intricacies surrounding the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) and F/A-XX programs, revealing nuanced shifts in funding priorities and strategic directions within the U.S. Air Force and Navy. These programs, aimed at developing advanced combat aircraft, highlight the complexities of modernizing the nation’s air combat capabilities amidst evolving threats and budgetary constraints.

NGAD: A Multi-Faceted Initiative

The NGAD program encompasses a diverse array of systems beyond the crewed combat jet, including the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drone program and the Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) jet engine program. Additionally, efforts are underway to develop new weapons, electronic warfare suites, sensors, and battle management capabilities. However, the exact budget allocation for NGAD and its subcomponents remains challenging to discern due to separate funding streams and potentially classified initiatives.

The NGAD combat jet, positioned to replace the F-22 Raptor, promises expanded capabilities and versatility, serving as stealthy ‘quarterbacks’ for future CCA drones. Despite the classification surrounding its requirements and capabilities, analysts have gleaned insights into the aircraft’s potential performance and technological features based on publicly available information.

Air Force’s NGAD Ambitions

The Air Force’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2025 reflects its commitment to advancing the NGAD program, with a substantial increase in funding earmarked for continued development. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall’s vision includes the acquisition of 200 advanced NGAD aircraft, each costing “multiple hundreds of millions of dollars.” While Northrop Grumman has withdrawn from contention as a prime contractor, Lockheed Martin and Boeing emerge as leading contenders for this prestigious project, with a multitude of contractors expected to contribute to design development and production.

Navy’s F/A-XX Program

In contrast to the Air Force’s focus on NGAD, the Navy’s F/A-XX program witnesses a reduction in funding for the 2025 Fiscal Year, indicative of a rephasing of priorities within the service’s aviation modernization efforts. The budgetary decrease, from $1.53 billion to $454 million, underscores a shift in short-term objectives, although the program’s current developmental stage and potential classified funding streams remain undisclosed.

Implications of Budgetary Realignment

The unveiling of the Pentagon’s $850 billion proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 underscores the broader challenges faced by the military in balancing immediate operational needs with long-term modernization goals. The contrasting trajectories of the NGAD and F/A-XX programs reflect the nuanced decision-making process within the Air Force and Navy, shaped by evolving threats and fiscal realities.

The Pentagon’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget reveals a complex landscape of competing priorities and strategic imperatives within the NGAD and F/A-XX programs. While the Air Force steers towards enhancing air superiority capabilities through NGAD, the Navy’s rephasing of the F/A-XX program reflects a recalibration of near-term objectives.

As the military navigates these budgetary challenges, critical decisions regarding resource allocation and program development will determine the future trajectory of U.S. air combat capabilities. Amidst uncertainties surrounding classified funding streams and contractor engagements, the NGAD and F/A-XX programs stand as emblematic of the intricate dynamics shaping modern military procurement and strategic planning. As stakeholders continue to assess and adapt to evolving threats and budgetary constraints, the pursuit of technological superiority remains paramount in safeguarding national security interests in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Prioritizing Readiness: Analysis of the Navy’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Focus

The U.S. Navy’s fiscal year 2025 budget request, as articulated by Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, underscores a deliberate strategic emphasis on readiness, personnel, and current operational capabilities. This approach reflects a nuanced balancing act, addressing immediate readiness challenges while cautiously navigating the trade-offs required in future modernization efforts due to financial constraints.

The Navy’s FY 2025 budget proposal is set at approximately $255 billion, an ambitious figure aimed at addressing a spectrum of priorities, including the procurement of critical assets and the enhancement of current operational capabilities. Central to the Navy’s acquisition strategy is the continued investment in the nuclear deterrent force, specifically through the procurement of the second Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine and two Virginia-class fast attack submarines. This move is indicative of the Navy’s commitment to sustaining a credible, modern, and responsive nuclear deterrent as a cornerstone of national security ​​.

However, the decision to request funding for one Virginia-class submarine instead of the previously anticipated two per year pace signals a tacit acknowledgment of the industrial base’s current limitations. This decision is intertwined with the broader strategic imperative to maintain a healthy fleet and reflects the complexities of aligning procurement strategies with operational readiness and industrial capacity​​.

The budget also earmarks significant investments for hypersonic weapons development, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing the Navy’s strike capabilities. This initiative, part of a broader DoD effort to maintain technological edge, underscores the importance of developing advanced weapons systems that can be integrated across the Navy’s platforms, including Zumwalt-class destroyers .

Further reflecting the prioritization of operational readiness over expansive modernization is the Navy’s ship maintenance and industrial base development strategy. The proposal includes funding for 37,000 full-time workers in public shipyards, 75 ship maintenance periods, and a substantial $400 million investment in industrial supplier development. This strategic focus is aimed at revitalizing the shipyards and ensuring the timely delivery of operational and combat-ready vessels .

It’s noteworthy that this fiscal strategy emerges against a backdrop of fiscal austerity, influenced by a debt-limit agreement that has necessitated a reassessment of the DoD’s investment plans for FY 2025. The Pentagon, faced with “difficult choices” due to these financial pressures, has had to recalibrate its budgetary allocations, impacting modernization accounts and forcing a more judicious allocation of resources towards priority areas​​.

The Navy’s budgetary focus for FY 2025, as articulated by Secretary Raven, is a testament to the strategic imperative of balancing readiness and modernization in a constrained fiscal environment. This approach aims to ensure that the Navy remains a formidable, responsive, and adaptive force, capable of meeting current challenges while strategically positioning itself for future threats. The explicit prioritization of readiness and personnel, coupled with a nuanced approach to modernization, encapsulates the Navy’s commitment to maintaining operational excellence and strategic deterrence in an increasingly complex security landscape.

Addressing Immediate Needs and Balancing Modernization: The Navy’s Strategic Vision

In a landscape marked by rapid technological evolution and complex geopolitical challenges, the United States Navy, under the leadership of figures like Secretary Raven, is deeply committed to addressing immediate operational readiness while strategically navigating the waters of future modernization. This vision underscores a deliberate approach to maintaining naval dominance, enhancing personnel readiness, and ensuring the lethality of its carrier wings, amidst evolving threats and opportunities on the global stage.

Immediate Priorities: Readiness and Personnel

The recent swearing-in of Erik K. Raven as the Navy’s Under Secretary has been a significant step towards reinforcing the Navy’s commitment to its core priorities​​. Raven’s extensive experience and established relationships within the Department of the Navy and Congress are expected to bolster efforts towards enhancing maritime dominance and fostering a culture of warfighting excellence. Emphasizing operational readiness, Raven and his team are dedicated to addressing the present-day challenges that confront naval personnel and assets, ensuring that the Navy remains poised to respond effectively to immediate operational demands.

The Delicate Balance with Modernization

At the same time, the Navy is acutely aware of the need for modernization to secure its future strategic advantage. Acknowledging the necessity to allocate risks towards future modernization programs, including the development of next-generation platforms like the F/A-XX, the Navy’s leadership has shown a commitment to a nuanced strategy that does not compromise critical investments in readiness and personnel​​. This approach reflects a deep understanding of the importance of both immediate readiness and long-term technological advancement to maintain a competitive edge.

Enhancing Carrier Wing Lethality

Amidst these strategic priorities, the Navy continues to underscore its commitment to maintaining the capacity and lethality of its carrier wings. The carrier air wing, with its unmatched firepower and capabilities, remains a pivotal element of the U.S. defense strategy, offering unparalleled support in maritime operations and ensuring the Navy’s ability to project power globally​​.

Future-Proofing Through Innovation and Collaboration

The introduction of advanced analytical tools and dashboards illustrates the Navy’s initiative to leverage digital transformation to enhance readiness and decision-making processes​​. By harnessing data and fostering a culture of innovation, the Navy aims not only to improve current operational capabilities but also to identify and overcome barriers to readiness and efficiency.

Facing Global Challenges

In facing the strategic challenges posed by rival nations and non-state actors, the Navy and Marine Corps are at a critical juncture. The push towards modernization and readiness is set against the backdrop of an assertive China and other global threats, necessitating a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to ensure maritime security and uphold international norms​​.

The United States Navy, under the stewardship of leaders like Secretary Raven and through the efforts of dedicated personnel, is navigating the delicate balance between addressing immediate operational needs and investing in the future. Through strategic modernization, enhancing carrier wing lethality, and leveraging technological advancements, the Navy is positioning itself to maintain its maritime dominance and contribute to national and global security in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

F/A-XX: Carrier-Capable Next-Generation Aircraft

The F/A-XX program represents a key component of the Navy’s future modernization efforts, aimed at developing a carrier-capable next-generation aircraft. While specific details regarding the F/A-XX remain limited, the Navy has indicated its intention for the aircraft to integrate closely with advanced drone systems and support future carrier air wing operations. Moreover, the Navy envisions a significant integration of unmanned aerial vehicles within its carrier air wings, reflecting a broader shift towards unmanned capabilities in naval aviation.

Collaboration with the Air Force

The Navy’s collaboration with the Air Force on the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program underscores inter-service cooperation in advancing future air combat capabilities. With a focus on mission systems, control architectures, and autonomous technologies, this collaboration underscores the synergistic efforts between the Navy and Air Force in shaping the future of aerial warfare. Such partnerships are integral to enhancing joint operational capabilities and optimizing resource utilization across service branches.

Secretary Raven’s remarks and the Navy’s fiscal priorities for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget reflect a strategic alignment towards enhancing readiness capabilities while simultaneously investing in future modernization initiatives. The deliberate allocation of risk towards next-generation programs such as the F/A-XX underscores the Navy’s commitment to balancing immediate operational needs with long-term strategic objectives. As the Navy navigates evolving threats and technological advancements, its fiscal decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future readiness and effectiveness of U.S. naval forces.

Unveiling the Naval Aviation Future: Analysis of F/A-XX Competition and Budgetary Realities

The anticipation surrounding the Navy’s future combat aircraft program, F/A-XX, intensifies as industry giants Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman emerge as frontrunners in the assumed prime contractor list. While the Navy has yet to officially announce an F/A-XX competition, strategic maneuvers by key defense contractors suggest a brewing competition for dominance in next-generation naval aviation.

Northrop Grumman’s Departure from NGAD and Speculations on F/A-XX

Northrop Grumman’s announcement of withdrawing from the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) competition reverberated across the defense industry. The decision, coupled with Northrop Grumman’s statement on pursuing “other opportunities in military aircraft,” sparked speculations regarding the company’s potential focus on the F/A-XX program. Although not explicitly confirmed, industry analysts view Northrop Grumman’s move as a strategic pivot towards securing a leading role in the future of naval aviation.

Boeing’s Strategic Posture and Fighter Aircraft Expertise

Boeing’s positioning in the F/A-XX competition reflects a strategic commitment to its legacy in fighter aircraft development. Despite the expected closure of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet production line, Boeing Air Dominance Vice President Steve Nordlund’s assertion of “planning for our future” underscores the company’s enduring focus on next-generation fighter capabilities. With a rich heritage in naval aviation, Boeing remains poised to leverage its expertise in shaping the future of carrier-based combat aircraft.

Lockheed Martin’s Pursuit of Naval Aviation Dominance

As a key player in both the NGAD and F/A-XX arenas, Lockheed Martin emerges as a formidable contender in the race for naval aviation supremacy. With its proven track record in advanced fighter aircraft development, including the F-35 Lightning II, Lockheed Martin brings unparalleled expertise to the table. The company’s strategic alignment with the Navy’s future requirements positions it as a frontrunner in the anticipated F/A-XX competition, further solidifying its dominance in the naval aviation market.

Congressional Oversight and Budgetary Realities:

While the Navy and Air Force navigate the intricacies of their respective next-generation combat jet programs, the ultimate fate of these initiatives lies in the hands of Congress. With the final say on the Department of Defense budget for the 2025 Fiscal Year, Congress holds significant influence over the allocation of funding for NGAD and F/A-XX programs. As budgetary constraints and strategic imperatives intersect, congressional deliberations will shape the trajectory of naval aviation modernization efforts.

Divergent Paths: Contrasting Approaches to Next-Generation Combat Jet Programs:

The divergent strategies pursued by the Air Force and Navy underscore the complexities inherent in modernizing U.S. military capabilities amidst evolving threats and fiscal constraints. While the Air Force’s NGAD program prioritizes air dominance and technological superiority, the Navy’s focus on the F/A-XX program reflects its unique requirements for carrier-based operations. Despite differing approaches, both services remain committed to advancing next-generation combat capabilities to maintain strategic relevance in an increasingly contested global environment.

As anticipation mounts for the F/A-XX competition and congressional deliberations on defense budget allocations unfold, the future of naval aviation hangs in the balance. With industry titans vying for prime contractor roles and strategic decisions shaping the trajectory of next-generation combat jet programs, the landscape of naval aviation stands poised for transformation. Against the backdrop of evolving threats and budgetary realities, the Navy’s pursuit of F/A-XX heralds a new era of innovation and capability enhancement in maritime warfare.

Advancing Air Superiority: Collins Aerospace’s Cutting-Edge Avionics Innovations

In an era characterized by complex international security landscapes and the emergence of sophisticated near-peer threats, the quest for air superiority remains paramount for military forces worldwide. As the demand for next-generation fighter platforms continues to rise, Collins Aerospace emerges as a pivotal player, delivering empowering technologies designed to achieve overmatch against adversaries. Through a strategic focus on open systems, connectivity across domains, autonomous operations, and optimization for Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP), Collins Aerospace is spearheading the evolution of avionics for sixth-generation fighter aircraft.

Central to Collins Aerospace’s commitment to air dominance is its revolutionary Mosarc™ avionics platform. Leveraging a modular, open, scalable, and secure architecture, Mosarc empowers warfighters with adaptable capabilities tailored to mission requirements. By embracing a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), Collins Aerospace offers fighter fleet owners a cost-effective solution that ensures continuous modernization while safeguarding previous investments.

The cornerstone of Mosarc is its ability to facilitate rapid technology insertions, crucial for outpacing evolving enemy threats. Through Mosarc’s open systems engineering approach, Collins Aerospace eliminates vendor lock, providing a flexible infrastructure for integrating and deploying new capabilities swiftly. This agility is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in dynamic operational environments.

One of the standout features of Collins Aerospace’s avionics arsenal is its Helmet Mounted Display Systems (HMDS). These systems provide pilots with unparalleled situational awareness and accuracy through integrated digital night vision and binocular displays. The lightweight, flexible design ensures compatibility with night vision goggles, enhancing operational effectiveness in low-light conditions.

Complementing the HMDS is the Mosarc Assured Networking Solutions (ANS), designed to enhance networking speeds and throughput for agile sensor integration. By reducing integration and certification times and costs while bolstering cyber resilience, ANS serves as a critical enabler for platform modular, open systems architecture. This enables more frequent and flexible mission upgrades, ensuring adaptability to evolving threats.

Further enhancing pilot situational awareness are the Mosarc Large Area Display (LAD) and Mosarc Adaptive Flight Display (AFD). The LAD offers tailorable, high-performance displays, while the AFD provides adaptive flight data interpretation through resistive touchscreen LCDs. These displays not only improve operational effectiveness but also prioritize operator safety and reliability, essential elements in high-stakes aerial engagements.

Collins Aerospace’s commitment to mission effectiveness extends beyond avionics to encompass comprehensive mission systems. From flight control to communication, navigation, and imaging systems, Collins Aerospace delivers cutting-edge solutions tailored to the demands of next-generation fighters. These systems not only optimize performance but also ensure operational reliability in the face of evolving threats.

Critical to the success of modern fighter platforms is the integration of advanced air data systems. Collins Aerospace’s offerings in this realm reduce Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) while enhancing accuracy and operational reliability. Additionally, the incorporation of Cross-Domain and SecureOne cybersecurity solutions ensures the secure operation of aircraft systems across diverse operational environments.

Drawing upon its rich heritage and extensive expertise in supporting fighter operators globally, Collins Aerospace stands as a key partner in ensuring the next generation of air dominance. By providing integrated platform infrastructure and supporting mission-critical equipment in a secure, networked, and intelligent manner, Collins Aerospace remains at the forefront of advancing air superiority.

Technology	Description
Mosarc Avionics	– Modular, open, scalable, and secure avionics architecture – Designed for rapid technology insertions and increased mission flexibility – Emphasizes open systems engineering and architecture
Helmet Mounted Display Systems (HMDS)	– Provides enhanced situational awareness and accuracy – Integrates digital night vision and binocular displays – Lightweight, flexible, and compatible with night vision goggles
Mosarc Assured Networking Solutions (ANS)	– Offers higher networking speeds and throughput – Decreases integration and certification times and costs – Networked cyber hardening – Critical for platform modular, open systems architecture
Mosarc Smart Network Access Point	– Enhances connectivity and data sharing capabilities
Mosarc Large Area Display (LAD)	– Tailorable, high-performance, wide-screen displays – Improves pilot situational awareness – Glove-compatible, resistive multi-touch displays – Redundant design architectures for reliability
Mosarc Adaptive Flight Display (AFD)	– Adaptive flight displays for improved data interpretation – Ruggedized design with resistive touchscreen LCDs – Multi-touch support and small footprint
Mission Systems	– Provides flight control, vehicle management computing solutions – Communication, navigation, sensors, imaging systems – Ensures superior performance and operational reliability
Air Data Systems	– Reduced size, weight, power, cost, and complexity – Improved accuracy and operational reliability
Cross-Domain and SecureOne Cybersecurity Solutions	– Ensures secure communication and operation of aircraft systems across domains
Fighter Expertise and Global Support	– Extensive experience in providing advanced avionics and mission solutions – Supports fighter operators globally – Ensures integrated platform infrastructure and secure operation
Service and Sustainment Solutions	– Customized solutions tailored to life cycle needs – Reduces turnaround times, backorders, spares requirements, and program costs

This table provides a comprehensive overview of the technologies and solutions offered by Collins Aerospace for enabling air dominance and supporting sixth-generation fighter aircraft.

Strengthening Deterrence: The Path to Modernizing U.S. Nuclear and Missile Defense Capabilities

The Department of Defense (DoD) maintains strategic deterrence as a cornerstone of national security, with nuclear weapons playing an irreplaceable role in deterring both nuclear and high-consequence strategic-level attacks. This imperative has led to a concerted effort toward the recapitalization and modernization of the United States’ nuclear triad, command and control systems, and missile defense capabilities. As we move forward, the critical nature of these modernization efforts cannot be overstated, given the advanced age of current systems and the evolving global threat landscape.

Figure – Nuclear Modernization FY 2025 Funding1 (DoD Funding only) ($ in billions)

Recapitalizing the Nuclear Triad

The nuclear triad, comprising land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers, ensures a resilient and reliable deterrent capable of responding to any aggression. However, the majority of these systems date back to the 1980s and earlier, necessitating urgent modernization to maintain strategic deterrence.

• LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM: The Sentinel program aims to replace the aging Minuteman III ICBMs with a system that enhances capability, security, and reliability. Beginning in the late 2020s, this effort encompasses new missiles, command and control, ground systems, and infrastructure modernization.
• Long Range Stand-Off (LRSO) Weapon: To replace the AGM-86B Air Launched Cruise Missile, the LRSO will ensure the U.S. can penetrate advanced air defense systems from significant distances, reinforcing the deterrent value of the strategic bomber leg.
• COLUMBIA Class SSBN: Set to replace the OHIO-class submarines, the COLUMBIA class program marks a pivotal upgrade for the sea-based leg of the triad. Starting in 2030, these submarines will carry the Trident II D5 SLBMs, ensuring uninterrupted sea-based deterrence capabilities.
• Trident II (D5) SLBM Life Extension: The D5LE and its subsequent iteration, D5LE2, aim to extend the service life of the Trident II missiles, which are central to the SLBM component of the triad. These efforts ensure the missiles remain viable through the early 2040s and beyond.
• B-21 Raider Strategic Bomber: As a key component of the nuclear and conventional strike capabilities, the B-21 Raider’s development signifies an important step in modernizing the air-based leg of the triad, with production commencing in FY 2024.
• F-35A Dual-Capable Aircraft (DCA): Enhancing NATO’s nuclear deterrence, the F-35A DCA will replace older 4th generation aircraft, achieving operational nuclear certification in early FY 2024.

Advancing Missile Defense

The DoD continues to prioritize the development and deployment of advanced missile defense systems to counter emerging threats. The FY 2025 budget request underscores this commitment, allocating significant resources to various programs designed to defend the homeland, allies, and deployed forces.

• Next Generation Interceptor (NGI): This program focuses on developing a strategic interceptor to shield the U.S. against ballistic missile threats, with an aim to expand the interceptor fleet size.
• Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD): Continued investment in GMD and the Long-Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR) ensures enhanced capability to intercept ballistic missiles during their midcourse phase.
• Regional Defense Enhancements: Upgrades to the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system and the deployment of Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA interceptors are pivotal for improving regional defense systems.
• Integrated Missile Defense Systems: The budget supports integrated regional defenses, leveraging systems like THAAD and Aegis Ashore, alongside investments in hypersonic defense capabilities and space-based sensors.
• Collaborative Efforts and Innovation: The DoD’s collaboration with the Space Force, the Space Development Agency, and international partners highlights the importance of joint efforts in advancing missile defense technologies and capabilities.

The United States’ commitment to modernizing its nuclear deterrence and missile defense capabilities reflects a strategic imperative to maintain national security in an increasingly complex global threat environment. Through significant investments in recapitalizing the nuclear triad and advancing missile defense technologies, the DoD aims to ensure that the U.S. deterrence posture remains credible, resilient, and capable of addressing current and future challenges.

---

reference link :

• https://www.collinsaerospace.com/what-we-do/industries/military-and-defense/platforms/fighters-and-bombers/sixth-generation-fighter
• USAF – https://www.af.mil/