Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD): Strategy, Technology, and Systems Integration Training by Tonex
This intensive 2-day course provides defense professionals, engineers, and decision-makers with a comprehensive understanding of the NGAD program, its core technologies, strategic implications, and future trajectory. Participants will explore advanced concepts including stealth technology, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, autonomous teaming, and next-gen sensor fusion.
Target Audience:
- Aerospace engineers
- Defense analysts and strategists
- Military acquisition professionals
- AI and systems integration specialists
- Defense contractors and policy advisors
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the strategic and tactical vision behind NGAD.
- Understand key enabling technologies including AI, stealth, quantum tech, and next-gen propulsion.
- Analyze system-of-systems architectures and manned-unmanned teaming.
- Evaluate the challenges of integrating multi-domain sensor fusion and battle network systems.
- Interpret acquisition, sustainment, and modularity strategies for long-term NGAD viability.
Day 1: Strategic Vision and Core Technologies
Module 1: NGAD Strategic Framework
- History and need for NGAD
- The shift from platform-centric to system-of-systems
- Role in Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO)
- NGAD vs. 5th Gen Fighters: Key distinctions
- Export control and allied interoperability
Module 2: Stealth and Survivability Enhancements
- Low observability fundamentals
- Advances in signature reduction (IR, RF, visual)
- Materials science and coatings
- Counter-stealth strategies and survivability
Module 3: Propulsion and Energy Systems
- Adaptive cycle engines
- Thermal management
- Integration with directed energy systems
- Power requirements for next-gen systems
Module 4: Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy
- AI for mission planning and real-time decision support
- AI-human teaming and cognitive offload
- AI for predictive maintenance and logistics
- Risks and trust in AI systems
Workshop: Stealth-AI Scenario Simulation
Participants assess mission profiles using stealth and AI-enabled decision tools for a contested airspace.
Day 2: Integration, Future Concepts, and Emerging Technologies
Module 5: Advanced Sensor Fusion and Quantum Technologies
- Quantum radar and quantum sensing
- Quantum secure communications
- Real-time multispectral sensor fusion
- Sensor redundancy and machine learning integration
Module 6: Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) and Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)
- Loyal wingman concepts
- Swarm drone coordination
- Autonomy and latency management
- CCA payload modularity and mission flexibility
Module 7: Digital Engineering and Modularity
- Digital twin and MBSE (Model-Based Systems Engineering)
- Plug-and-play architecture
- Open mission systems and software upgrades
- Lifecycle management and sustainment
Module 8: C5ISR Integration and Electromagnetic Spectrum Warfare
- Role of NGAD in network-centric warfare
- C5ISR interoperability with legacy and future assets
- Electromagnetic operations and spectrum agility
- Resilient communications and jamming resistance
Final Capstone Exercise: NGAD Operational Scenario War Game
Teams analyze a contested A2/AD (Anti-Access/Area Denial) environment and deploy a notional NGAD system-of-systems approach with autonomous wingmen, AI command systems, and multispectral ISR to achieve air dominance.