Top 5 6th Generation Fighter Jets in Development: Tempest vs NGAD vs FC-31 vs AMCA vs Sukhoi Checkmate

As global air forces prepare for the next era of aerial dominance, nations are racing to develop 6th generation fighter jets—advanced aircraft designed to dominate in a world of stealth warfare, unmanned teaming, artificial intelligence, and hypersonic weapons. These next-gen fighters aim to replace or supplement existing 5th generation jets like the F-35, Su-57, and J-20, promising revolutionary capabilities that go far beyond today’s standards.

This article compares the top 5 6th generation fighter jets currently in development: the UK-led Tempest, US NGAD, China’s FC-31, India’s AMCA, and Russia’s Sukhoi Checkmate. Each reflects its nation’s vision of the future of air warfare.

Top 6th Generation Fighter Jets in Development

1. Tempest (United Kingdom/Italy/Japan): Europe’s Future Combat Air Dominance

The Tempest fighter jet is being developed under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. It is intended to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon by the mid-2030s.

Key Capabilities

Tempest is designed as a multinational 6th generation fighter, integrating artificial intelligence, swarming drones, and directed-energy weapons. It will use adaptive engines, offer sensor fusion, and feature low observability (stealth) in multiple spectrums.

Timeline and Development

Flight testing is expected to begin around 2027, with operational deployment projected in the early 2030s. The Tempest will serve as a cornerstone of European air superiority and defense cooperation.

2. NGAD (United States): The Next Evolution in American Air Dominance

The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is the United States Air Force’s answer to future air threats. Unlike a single aircraft, NGAD is a system-of-systems, which includes a manned 6th generation fighter, loyal wingman drones, and AI-driven battlefield integration.

Technological Innovation

The NGAD fighter will have variable cycle engines, enhanced stealth, sensor fusion, and autonomous mission support. It is expected to carry hypersonic weapons and coordinate with drones in real-time through machine-learning algorithms.

Status and Secrecy

While details are classified, a prototype has already flown. The U.S. plans to introduce NGAD fighters by the early 2030s, maintaining its air superiority edge over peer adversaries like China and Russia.

3. FC-31 (China): Stealth Export Jet with 6th Gen Aspirations

China’s FC-31, also known as J-35 in its navalized form, is being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation as a potential rival to Western stealth fighters. While initially a 5th gen prototype, newer versions show signs of 6th generation transition.

Design and Capabilities

The FC-31 features stealth shaping, internal weapon bays, and advanced electronic warfare systems. China is reportedly upgrading the platform with AI-enabled targeting, supercruise capabilities, and carrier-based variants.

Strategic Goals

The aircraft is likely intended for China’s aircraft carriers and export markets. It could serve as a bridge to more advanced domestic 6th gen platforms in the 2030s.

4. AMCA (India): Indigenous Stealth Fighter for Strategic Autonomy

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is being developed by HAL and DRDO to equip the Indian Air Force with an indigenous 5.5 to 6th generation stealth fighter.

Unique Features

The AMCA will have internal weapon bays, supercruise capability, radar-absorbent materials, and sensor fusion. Phase-1 of development focuses on a twin-engine 5th gen design, while Phase-2 will integrate 6th generation technologies like directed energy weapons, loyal wingmen, and adaptive avionics.

Development Roadmap

Prototype rollout is targeted for 2026–2027, with the first induction expected in the early 2030s. AMCA is critical to India’s pursuit of self-reliance in aerospace defense.

5. Sukhoi Checkmate (Russia): Cost-Effective Stealth Fighter for Global Export

Unveiled in 2021, the Sukhoi Checkmate (Su-75) is a single-engine stealth fighter that aims to be a low-cost alternative to Western 5th and future 6th gen fighters. It is targeted at both domestic and international markets.

Design Philosophy

Checkmate features stealth shaping, internal weapons storage, modular avionics, and open architecture systems. Russia has hinted at integrating AI, pilot-assist automation, and future upgrades aligning with 6th gen capabilities.

Export Focus

Marketed as an affordable stealth solution for Africa, Latin America, and Asia, the Checkmate’s success depends on whether Russia can fund and complete development amid sanctions and economic pressure. Deliveries are expected post-2030.