Air Force transitions test squadron to run NGAD flight tests

The Air Force is preparing for the Next Generation Air Dominance platform by tasking one of its flight test squadrons with planning and running test campaigns for the future fighter jet, according to an Air Force news release.

Formerly the F-22 Raptor Combined Test Force, the Air Dominance Combined Test Force at Edwards Air Force Base, CA will maintain its mission to test F-22 enhancements while also running the tests for the NGAD family of systems, according to the release.

“The establishment of the Air Dominance CTF shows that we are becoming more integrated and more lethal, while also shaping the future of air combat,” the 411th Flight Test Squadron’s Lt. Col. Michael Coleman said. “We do not fight as individual platforms, but rather we leverage a system of systems approach across the entire kill chain. We will be an integral part of fielding a family of innovative platforms and systems through NGAD that will enable the Air Force to control the skies in a highly contested environment.”

The Combined Test Force includes representatives from developmental test, operational test, program offices and support contractors, according to the service.

The Air Force is seeking to spend $22 billion over the next five years on NGAD and the autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft system, according to the spending plan the service released with its fiscal year 2024 budget request.

The service began source selection for NGAD in May, announcing it will award an engineering and manufacturing development contract for the platform next year.