A sixth-generation fighter is a concept for the next generation of advanced military fighter aircraft that will succeed the current fifth-generation fighters like the F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, Chengdu J-20, and Sukhoi Su-57. These future aircraft are still under development or in early prototype stages, with operational service expected around the 2030s to 2040s.

Key Features of Sixth-Generation Fighters
Although specific designs vary by country, common expected capabilities include:

1. Advanced Stealth and Survivability
   Even lower radar cross-sections than 5th-gen fighters.

Radar-absorbent materials and conformal weapon bays.

Counter-IR and multispectral stealth.

1. Optional Manned Operation (Manned-Unmanned Teaming)
   Designed to be flown with or without a pilot.

Ability to command drones or "loyal wingmen" (autonomous or semi-autonomous UAVs).

1. AI and Advanced Sensor Fusion
   Artificial intelligence for decision support, threat identification, and autonomous missions.

Real-time data fusion from onboard and offboard sensors (satellites, drones, etc.).

1. Next-Gen Propulsion
   Supercruise (sustained supersonic flight without afterburners).

Possibly variable-cycle engines for optimized performance and fuel efficiency.

Greater thrust and thermal management for directed-energy weapons.

1. Directed-Energy Weapons
   Integration of lasers or microwave weapons for missile defense or close-range attacks.

2. Hypersonic and Advanced Weapons
   Capability to carry hypersonic missiles, enhanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.

Smart weapons with improved precision, range, and adaptability.

1. Full-Domain Situational Awareness
   Real-time battlefield management and communication across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains.

360° sensor coverage with passive and active systems.

1. Cyber Resilience and Electronic Warfare
   Advanced EW capabilities to jam, spoof, or blind enemy sensors.

Hardened systems to resist cyberattacks and electronic interference.

Current Projects (as of 2025)
United States: NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) for the Air Force and Navy.

United Kingdom: Tempest (with Italy and Japan, merged into GCAP).

Europe (France, Germany, Spain): FCAS (Future Combat Air System).

Japan-UK-Italy: Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).

Russia and China are rumored to have early-stage concepts but limited public info.