NEXT-GEN FIGHTER JETS

Sixth-generation stealth fighter jets are coming. How will these advanced flying machines remain undetected in a world of increasingly sophisticated radar technology?

- AILSA HARVEY

Almost everything about a classic fighter jet demands attention. These machines boast big, bold frames, sound like thunder as they soar through the sky at supersonic speeds and reveal their presence as glowing targets as they pop up on radar. But stealth fighter jets are an entirely different species, built to not only dominate the skies during combat, but disappear into them too.

Stealth fighter jets are engineered ghosts, designed to make an aircraft over 15 metres long undetectable. In a technological arms race as aircraft detection techniques improve, countries across the globe are racing to produce the most up-to-date stealth fighters so that if needed they can defend their airspace. Many countries have grouped together to form alliances, sharing ideas and signing agreements to use new fighter jets for their mutual interests. These international ventures combine top innovative technologies and demonstrate stealth superiority.

But what is a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet? Generally speaking, they're housed in non-reflective, matte coatings and have edges that blend smoothly into unusual-looking geometric shapes that manipulate how radar signals interact with their bodies. Meanwhile, the weapons that usually hang off jets in full display are concealed within the jet’s body inside internal bays. To be counted among the next generation of fighter jets, these aircraft require significant advances in stealth capabilities. For sixth-generation fighters, this is largely in the form of digital offence and passive defence in a world where computer power can outperform human analysis and improve response times to keep the aircraft undercover.