Uncertainty remains as Trump boasts F-55 and F-22 Super aircraft programmes
The F-22 is undergoing a series of upgrades to boost its lethality and survivability. (Photo: USAF)
While details are light after the President’s comments, the US Air Force (USAF) has long needed to boost its fighter aircraft capabilities, according to USAF and analyst viewpoints.
The US is looking at a possible new twin-engine combat aircraft, along with an upgrade to the F-22, US President Donald J Trump has said.
The remarks came during his tour of Gulf States on 15 May in the wake of the US signing a multi-billion dollar deal with Saudi Arabia and Qatar for a variety of defence equipment.
“We're going to do an F-55 and - I think, if we get the right price, we have to get the right price - that'll be two engines and a super upgrade on the F-35, and then we're going to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Further investments in OWE and launchers to boost British Army deep fires capability]()
Further investments in OWE and launchers to boost British Army deep fires capability
Two contracts are expected to be signed by March 2026 that will help bolster the force’s capabilities, with further trials of the launcher expected across other departments.
-
![Scaling for diverse fleet needs: How many CCA will be acquired per crewed aircraft?]()
Scaling for diverse fleet needs: How many CCA will be acquired per crewed aircraft?
There is currently no industry standard in the ratio of uncrewed to crewed aircraft. Because collaborative combat aircraft vary widely in capability and crewed-uncrewed teaming availability, while country-specific requirements vary, it is unlikely that a single CCA configuration will meet all operational needs.
-
![Focus on economy over capability highlights the cost imperative for CCA success]()
Focus on economy over capability highlights the cost imperative for CCA success
Striking the right balance between cost and capability is likely to become more crucial in the increasingly competitive collaborative combat aircraft market. Shephard’s special CCA market report examines where the opportunities lie for suppliers.
-
![Saudi Arabia air report: The world’s fourth-largest UAV market seeks to strengthen domestic industry]()
Saudi Arabia air report: The world’s fourth-largest UAV market seeks to strengthen domestic industry
With $9.18 billion in uncontracted programmes — including a potential multi-billion-dollar MQ-9B deal — Saudi Arabia’s UAV sector is poised for significant further growth and industrial expansion.
