The U.S. Navy has raised alarms about growing threats to its aircraft in the skies over Iran. Admiral Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations, warned that the era when American jets could “fly with impunity” is ending and said the next-generation F/A-XX fighter will be essential to counter these evolving threats. Modern air defense systems are rapidly improving, making the Navy’s current fighter jets, like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, increasingly vulnerable.
The warning comes amid a major U.S. military buildup in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln Aircraft Carrier Strike Group, carrying Super Hornets, F-35s, and EA-18G Growlers, has been deployed to the region. While these forces provide strong deterrence, Admiral Caudle emphasizes that even today’s advanced jets could face serious risks against sophisticated enemy defenses.
Rising Threats in the Region
Iran’s integrated air defense network includes long-range surface-to-air missile systems capable of hitting aircraft hundreds of kilometers away. Systems like the domestic Bavar-373, comparable to Russia’s S-300, can intercept high-altitude targets. Such capabilities put U.S. carrier-launched aircraft at risk during strike missions or close-air support operations.
United States moves warships toward Iran as tensions in the Gulf sharply escalate
Non-state groups allied with Iran, such as the Houthis in Yemen, have also demonstrated the ability to shoot down high-tech drones, including MQ-9 Reapers. Meanwhile, Iran benefits from partnerships with countries like China and Russia, which provide advanced technology through indirect channels. Combined, these factors make the skies over Iran increasingly dangerous for current U.S. aircraft.
According to Admiral Caudle, these developments highlight the need for a next-generation fighter jet that can operate effectively despite advanced enemy air defenses.
The F/A-XX: A Next-Generation Solution
The Navy’s F/A-XX program is designed to replace the Super Hornets and exceed the F-35 in key areas. The aircraft will feature enhanced stealth, longer range, and advanced electronic warfare capabilities. Its most notable feature is the ability to command multiple unmanned “loyal wingman” drones, known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs). These drones can perform reconnaissance, electronic attacks, or strike missions, protecting jets while overwhelming enemy defenses.
Admiral Caudle says the F/A-XX will act as a force multiplier. Advanced sensors and data links will allow it to coordinate with aircraft carriers, surface ships, and early warning aircraft. It can also operate alongside unmanned tankers like the MQ-25, enabling extended missions over large operational areas. This combination of capabilities is seen as essential to maintain U.S. air superiority in contested zones.
Global attention shifts north to Greenland — leaving Iran’s historic uprising in the shadows
While the Super Hornets and Growlers remain the backbone of current carrier air wings, Admiral Caudle stresses that only the F/A-XX can consistently penetrate future air defenses and ensure operational effectiveness in the coming decade.
Funding and Development Progress
The F/A-XX program had faced delays due to Pentagon priorities on other sixth-generation fighter jets for the Air Force. Recently, Congress revived funding, proposing nearly $900 million for the Navy’s program, up from $74 million previously. Boeing and Northrop Grumman are competing to develop the aircraft.
Iran shocks world by selling ballistic missiles and warships for crypto, bypassing sanctions
Admiral Caudle has emphasized the need to develop the F/A-XX rapidly. Delays could expose U.S. carrier air wings as Iran and its allies acquire more sophisticated weapons. The F/A-XX will carry out strike missions, conduct electronic warfare, and perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), giving the Navy an integrated tool to operate in highly defended airspace.
In short, the F/A-XX is the only aircraft that can combine stealth, range, electronic attack, and unmanned drone control, allowing the U.S. to maintain dominance over hostile regions like Iran. With threats rising, the Navy is pushing to make this next-generation jet operational as soon as possible.