Global air capabilities are constantly evolving, currently highlighting the F-35 Lightning II as one of the most advanced combat aircraft.
However, aerospace industry leaders are already charting the future with the development of the next generations of combat platforms. Although specific details about the future design of the fighters are still uncertain, it is possible to outline some essential features based on recent trends and announcements.
Open Systems Architecture in the Development of Sixth Generation Fighters (65-70) and continues writing.
1— Open system architecture:
- Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA): Allows continuous technological integrations.
- Open Sensor Systems Architecture (SOSATM): Innovations in integrated sensors.
- Data Isolation: Protects crucial information.
- Prioritization: Optimizes functions based on operational need.
- Updates and insertions: Facilitates continuous improvements in software and hardware.
The sixth-generation fighter platform transcends the traditional notion of a single fighter, becoming rather a comprehensive system that interconnects various components, including various aircraft models. The key to this system is its scalability and modularity, attributable to its open architecture, which is essential to implement significant updates and adaptations in the design.
Collins Aerospace has highlighted the importance of this methodology, noting that:
“To ensure a more agile and flexible sixth-generation fighter, avionics solutions must be built around an open systems engineering approach and architecture to enable rapid technology insertions and greater mission flexibility to help overcome challenges.” evolving enemy threats and ensure sustained air dominance.”
It is crucial to note that open architecture platforms do not only apply to avionics; Its reach extends to all domains of design, manufacturing, embedded systems and operations, facilitating constant integration and evolution in response to emerging challenges.
The strategic role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in future combat configurations is increasingly prominent, especially in fleets that include sixth-generation fighter aircraft. These UAVs are designed to operate in concert with manned aircraft, providing multifaceted and essential support for the execution of combined operations.
2— Integration of UAVs in Sixth Generation combat missions
UAVs, as a complement to manned aircraft, have a series of key functions:
- Coordinated operations with the aircraft of origin: They act as force multipliers alongside manned fighters.
- Jet platforms: Use advanced propulsion to maintain pace in high-speed scenarios.
- Combined missions: Collaborate on operations that require a coordinated effort between multiple air assets.
- Autonomous operations: Capable of executing independent missions without direct supervision.
- Reconnaissance and surveillance: They carry out intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to collect critical data.
- Home Aircraft Protection: Secure and defend primary air assets against threats.
A prominent example of this integration is the Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat, developed for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). This UAV is specifically designed to increase the capabilities of manned combat aircraft by supporting specialized missions, showing how synergy between different types of aircraft can optimize air operations.
New generation UAVs, such as the MQ-28, are anticipated to be crucial to future combat aviation roles. These drones will be equipped with jet propulsion systems and can be controlled both from the main aircraft and through ground stations. These robotic systems not only increase operational capabilities, but also strengthen mission safety and effectiveness, underscoring their indispensable role in the air arsenal of the future.
Evolution in propulsion systems is a key component in the development of sixth-generation fighter aircraft, with an increasing focus on the integration of digitally advanced technologies. These systems not only promise to improve operational capabilities, but also revolutionize the speed and efficiency of military aircraft.
3— Advances in Sixth Generation propulsion systems
Digitally designed propulsion systems offer several significant advantages:
- Improved Precision and Accuracy: Optimizes engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Upgradeability: They allow technological integrations without the need for complete redesigns.
- Operational reliability: Increase consistency and durability in combat conditions.
- Higher sustained speeds: Facilitate operations at prolonged supersonic speeds.
The United States Air Force (USAF) has entered into collaborations with industry leaders such as GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney for the development of these cutting-edge propulsion systems. These innovations have the potential to raise fighter operating speeds to approximately Mach 2.2 to Mach 2.5, far exceeding the capabilities of previous generations, as evidenced by the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II aircraft. .
In addition to their application in manned aircraft, it is anticipated that these advanced propulsion systems will also be essential for unmanned aerial vehicles. This integration ensures that both UAVs and manned fighters can operate cohesively within the same theater of operations, thus improving the overall effectiveness of combat missions. The adoption of these next-generation propulsion systems reflects a significant step forward in air capability, marking an era of technological superiority in military aviation.
Innovation in helmet-mounted display (HMD) systems is driving a quantum leap in pilots’ situational awareness, a crucial factor for effectiveness in modern combat.
4— Helmet-mounted display to optimize situational awareness
HMDs integrate advanced features that increase pilot performance, such as:
- Integrated digital night vision: Allows effective operations in low light conditions.
- Proven and mature design: Ensures system reliability and efficiency.
- Binocular display: Offers stereoscopic vision for enhanced depth perception.
- Variety of light and flexible HMDs: Reduces pilot fatigue and improves ergonomics.
- Greater situational awareness and precision: Facilitates quick and accurate decisions in critical situations.
Collins Aerospace is at the forefront of developing HMDs for current and future fighter aircraft programs, designing systems that enhance the pilot’s situational awareness, crucial for instant decision making. The technology allows pilots to intuitively access critical flight data, tactics and detailed sensory information in real time.
According to Collins Aerospace: “The next-generation user interface serves as the pilot’s primary display system, and virtual capabilities allow them to see through the underside of the fuselage or directly at a target. With uninterrupted viewing of flight information and sensor data, the pilot experiences extreme spatial orientation, superior weapons aiming and tactical superiority, both day and night.”
5— Comprehensive network solutions in combat aviation
In terms of network solutions, time-sensitive networks (TSN) are defining the future of interoperability and integration in combat platforms. These networks offer significant advantages:
- Better network speeds and performance: Optimize sensor integration and data collection.
- Reduction of integration and certification times and costs: Streamlines operational processes.
- Reinforced cybersecurity: Protects against digital threats.
- Facilitation of open and modular architectures: Supports systematic updates and modifications.
- More frequent and flexible mission updates: Allows rapid adaptation to new tactics or threats.
Collins Aerospace has highlighted the importance of these networks through the “SNAP” (Smart Network Access Point) system, which allows the implementation of a next-generation digital backbone network. This system not only ensures the protection and security of networks, but also facilitates modularity and flexibility throughout the life of the aircraft, preparing them for future challenges and ensuring the ability to adapt and respond effectively on the dynamic battlefield. aerial.
