Israel to request information on US F-47 sixth-generation fighter jet, may seek to acquire for IAF

Israel intends to request information about Boeing's secretive F-47 fighter jet, amid regional diplomatic developments and a global arms race, Walla has learned.

For years, the United States has refused to sell the F-22 Raptor fighter jet to any foreign country, preserving an aircraft that gives it air superiority over other militaries. However, despite the secrecy surrounding the future F-47, senior White House officials have hinted that Japan may be allowed to participate in the project.

Israel's defense establishment remains uncertain whether those comments were intended as a diplomatic signal amid growing tensions with China or reflected a genuine US willingness to involve allied countries in the program.

Against this backdrop, the Defense Ministry and the IDF intend to request information about the F-47 and its capabilities alongside ongoing procurement efforts for F-35 and F-15 fighter jets, Walla has learned.

Israeli defense officials also plan to conduct an initial assessment of US policy toward the aircraft and determine whether Washington's approach will differ from the restrictions imposed on the F-22.

Israel to request secret US F-47 fighter jets

The US F-47 project is being developed under an especially heavy veil of secrecy. The sixth-generation aircraft is expected to use a newly developed engine, which is currently facing development challenges, partly because of the unusual requirements set by the US Defense Department compared with previous aircraft.

Among those requirements is the ability to generate thrust without fuel, allowing the aircraft to extend its operational range to at least approximately 2,000 kilometers, a distance comparable to the operational radius needed to reach Iran, Iraq, and the Houthis in Yemen. Other requirements include a sixth-generation engine and the ability to carry significantly more weaponry than the F-35.

The price of each aircraft will depend on the size of the US Defense Department's eventual order and on Washington's policy regarding the participation of additional countries in the program.

F-47 to feature remote-operation capabilities, advanced AI, onboard drones

Walla has also learned that the F-47 is expected to feature advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, as well as the ability to operate robots carried inside the aircraft, including UAVs. Western experts have suggested that, in certain configurations, the entire aircraft could potentially be operated remotely.

Another area receiving significant US attention is connectivity with parallel systems in the air, at sea, on land, and in space. Particular emphasis has also been placed on the aircraft's aerodynamic capabilities and on a stealth profile considered unique worldwide.

US seeks to keep down F-47 operating costs compared to older jets

The US is also seeking to reduce the aircraft's maintenance costs compared with those of the F-22 and F-35.

The F-47's first flights are expected to begin in 2028, according to US media reports.