I’m looking at the UCAV role beyond fifth generation. I guess, in the mean time, we’ll need to go to war with what we have until we have what we need.
I understand; but another thing to consider is the current airframe lacks a vertical stabilizer, severely limiting high-g ACM.
I’d have to say that for the fleet CAP role, they’re going to have to start with a clean sheet of paper. That implies anywhere from 7 to 15 years development before it’s ready.
For the Marines, I have to say I like the idea of someone like Grumman taking the Fairchild A-10 and reworking it for Short-Deck carriers. If we had to, I think this is more do-able than going for the UCAV’s.
Besides, the only thing UCAV’s are is a re-useable SLAM, which will take longer to develop, and cost WAY more. Why not build more Tomahawks?