6th Generation fighter jets are coming, but don't count out the F-35 and F-22

The F-35 and F-22 have become the backbone of the United States military in the last couple of decades. There has been a lot of debate about how they compare to each other, but the 6th generation fighter jet could prove to be even more impressive than both of them.

The F-35 is crucial to the national security of the United States. There are three different single engine F-35 variants each used by a different branch of the Military. The F-35A is the original option with conventional takeoff and landing utilized by the Air Force. The F-35B utilizes short takeoff, vertical landing and is in service with the Marine Corps. The F-35C is an aircraft carrier option used by the Navy. All three variants have similar performance characteristics and the exact same advanced avionics.

The F-35 pilot

Demonstrates exceptional skills that are amplified with amazing technological advancements in military aircraft that have consistently been at the cutting edge for decades.

An F-35 cockpit

Is full of mission-critical monitors and controls providing stealth technology, network-enabled operations, supersonic speeds, and an electronic warfare system.

The F-35 engine

Allows for maneuvering capabilities once never thought possible.

The F-35 helmet

Integrates some of the most amazing technology ever incorporated into a pilot’s helmet. Some of the groundbreaking technology at an F-35 pilot’s disposal includes thermal imaging, video feed from underneath the aircraft and night vision, to name a few.

5th Generation fighter jets

Prioritizes features that make them the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world. The requirements for stealth, speed, advanced avionics, C4ISR, and electronic warfare mean fighter jets have more electronics on board than ever before. Electronic signals need to be protected to function properly making electromagnetic interference or EMI protection a priority.

Development is already underway on 6th Generation fighters.

The United States Air Force has begun its Next Generation Air Dominance Program to replace the F-22, and the Navy has started the F/A-XX program, intended to complement the F-35 and replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Some potential systems under consideration are augmented reality for pilots through helmet-mounted displays, unmanned aircraft, artificial intelligence, and directed-energy weapons. The implementation of more electronics requires more EMI protection than ever in a smaller and lighter package.

Amphenol Aerospace has designed and manufactured EMI protection filter connectors involved for mission-critical systems for more than 45 years, and is an industry leader in the manufacturing of MIL-SPEC 38999 connectors.

For more information, please visit Amphenol Aerospace EMI Filters