As the Pentagon develops sixth-generation fighters like the F-47, military insiders are divided over whether future warplanes will need pilots. Experts argue whether autonomous drones will soon match piloted aircraft in capabilities, with some calling for the F-35 to be the last manned aircraft, while others stress the importance of human piloting in high-stakes combat.
Some argue that the F-35 should be the last manned aircraft, while others, including current Air Force pilots, disagree. A former senior defense official told Fox News Digital that it’s highly controversial whether manned fighters will be necessary for the latter half of the century. While some believe drones could be the future, others warn about the network resilience and decision-making speed required for high-stakes combat.
Recent actions, like the B-2 bombers striking Iranian nuclear facilities, highlight the importance of human pilots in executing complex missions. However, the most rapid technological advancements in U.S. history have left defense officials struggling to plan for the future. The debate continues as both the Air Force and Navy take different approaches to integrating unmanned technology into their fleets.