President Donald Trump said he intends to sell allies “toned-down” versions of the U.S.’ next generation fighter jet the F-47.
Trump, the 47th president of the United States, announced the new jet’s designation will be F-47.
“Our allies are calling constantly, they want to buy them all,” he said at a press briefing, before claiming that America’s allies would get “toned-down versions.”Dominate the Skies
— U.S. Air Force (@usairforce) March 21, 2025
Get your first look at what will be the most advanced, lethal, & adaptable fighter ever developed... the U.S. Air Force's F-47. pic.twitter.com/ca1CeBABb5
“We like to tone them down about 10 percent, which probably makes sense because someday maybe they’re not our allies, right?” the president said.
Trump says that “certain” U.S. allies will be able to buy a “toned-down” version of the new F-47 fighter jets:
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) March 22, 2025
“Because someday they’re not our ally.”
Any idea who this might be referring to? 😬 pic.twitter.com/On85ySfix5
The F-47 development project, known as the Next Generation Air Dominance program, will replace Lockheed Martin's F-22 Raptor with a crewed aircraft built to enter combat alongside drones.
The plane's design remains a closely held secret, but would likely include stealth, advanced sensors, and cutting-edge engines. The president said it will be “the most lethal aircraft ever built.”
Politico said the fight jet will directly challenge China’s military advances in the Pacific.
The White House’s shift in policy toward its NATO allies has caused fears that the U.S. may no longer be a reliable guarantor of its allies’ security. A brief pause in supplying weapons and intelligence and Trump’s repeated comments about annexing Canada and Greenland have already strained relationships between Washington and other Western capitals.
Earlier this month, Portugal opted against buying F-35s over Washington’s recent policy shift and Canada said it would review its plans after the U.S. president imposed sanctions on its northern neighbor.
