Overview
- The Navy posted a Request for Information on Aug. 31 asking industry for concepts and data to develop a carrier-capable Collaborative Combat Aircraft and set a Sept. 18 deadline for responses.
- The RFI sets an affordability ceiling of $30 million per aircraft and asks companies to show interim manufacturing and supply‑chain plans to meet that target.
- Design requirements call for a weapon load of up to five tons, including four external weapons up to 2,500 pounds each, and a capability to remain 30 minutes on station with fuel reserved for safe recovery.
- The aircraft must operate from Gerald R. Ford‑ and Nimitz‑class carriers using catapult launches and arrested recoveries up to Sea State 5, fit within existing fourth‑generation fighter deck and hangar footprints, and use the MD‑5 mission control system with current carrier air wing personnel.
- The Navy wants two prototypes that can achieve shore and carrier qualification within about three years and is using the RFI as an information‑gathering step that could change requirements before any formal procurement.