An artist's rendering of the F-47 - released by the United States Air Force.
Possible US sale of F-47 fighter jet draws ‘Israeli’ interest
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‘Israel’ plans to request detailed information on the United States’ highly classified Boeing F-47 sixth-generation fighter jet and may ultimately seek to acquire the aircraft for the ‘Israeli’ Air Force, according to reports from Hebrew media.
The move comes amid regional diplomatic developments, including discussions linked to a memorandum of understanding involving Iran, and a broader global arms race.
‘Israeli’ military officials have previously inquired about the F-47 in the context of those talks.
The Defense Ministry and ‘Israeli’ military intend to seek data on the jet’s capabilities while continuing ongoing procurements of F-35 and F-15 fighter aircraft.
Officials also plan an initial assessment of US export policy to determine whether Washington’s approach will differ from the strict restrictions that long barred any foreign sales of the F-22 Raptor.
For years, the United States refused to sell the F-22 to any country in order to preserve its unique air-superiority edge.
In contrast, senior White House officials have hinted that Japan might be allowed to participate in the F-47 program.
‘Israeli’ defense sources remain uncertain whether those signals reflect a genuine shift toward involving close allies or serve primarily as a diplomatic message amid tensions with China.
The F-47, developed under the US Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance program, is shrouded in exceptional secrecy.
Boeing was selected as the prime contractor in 2025, and the aircraft is designated the F-47.
It is expected to feature a newly developed engine—currently facing some developmental challenges due to demanding requirements—that could enable extended range of at least approximately 2,000 kilometers, sufficient to reach targets in Iran, Iraq, or Yemen.
The jet is also designed to carry significantly more weaponry than the F-35.
According to reporting, the F-47 is projected to incorporate advanced artificial intelligence, the ability to operate onboard robots and unmanned aerial vehicles, and possible remote-operation configurations in certain setups.
Emphasis is also being placed on multi-domain connectivity with air, sea, land, and space systems, unique stealth characteristics, superior aerodynamic performance, and lower maintenance costs relative to earlier fifth-generation fighters such as the F-22 and F-35.
First flights are anticipated in 2028.
The unit price will depend on the scale of the eventual US order and any decisions on allied participation.
