Specific requirements are anticipated by some observers to crystallize around 2025. Development time and cost are likely to prove major factors in laying out practical roadmaps. The feasibility of some of these characteristics remains uncertain.

Potential use of directed-energy weapons such as a laser CIWS.

Increased-range stand-off and BVR weapons.

Advanced variable-cycle engines able to cruise economically but still deliver high thrust when required.

Advanced stealth airframes and avionics.

Enhanced human-systems integration, with virtual cockpits presented via helmet-mounted displays which allow the pilot 360-degree vision with AI-enhanced battlefield awareness, and replacing conventional instrument panels.

Optionally manned, with the same airframe capable of conducting piloted, remote controlled or onboard-AI controlled missions.

Advanced digital capabilities including high-capacity networking, AI, data fusion, cyber warfare, D2D and battlefield command, control and communications (C3) capabilities.

Typical design characteristics anticipated to deliver these roles include: The flexibility to undertake manned and unmanned missions is also sought, along with the ability to integrate with more numerous fleets of satellite drones and ground sensors in a high-traffic networked environment to deliver full 'data-to-decision' (D2D) capability. An initial focus on air superiority roles has moved away from close-in dogfighting, which is becoming less common, and instead broadened to embrace ground support, cyber warfare and even space warfare capabilities, with beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile capability remaining important. The fifth-generation abilities for air-to-air capability, battlefield survivability in the anticipated anti-access/area denial environment and ground support/attack will need to be enhanced and adapted to the future threat environment.

While still at an early stage of development, several distinct characteristics common to many sixth-generation fighter concepts have evolved.

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