Potential “Kill Switch” in U.S.A.F’s New F-47 Stealth Jet Raises Eyebrows

The U.S. Air Force's upcoming F-47 fighter jet is facing concerns from allies after President Donald Trump stated that exported versions could be intentionally downgraded, potentially including a "kill switch" to disable them if relations changed.

Trump said the U.S. would sell "perhaps toned-down versions" of the fighter to certain allies, adding, "We like to tone them down about 10% because, someday, maybe they're not our allies, right?" This remark has raised concerns among defense analysts and partner nations over the jet’s security features and possible remote shutdown mechanisms.

Retired Air Marshal Greg Bagwell, President of the Air and Space Power Association, said the comments could make allies hesitate to procure the aircraft. "They've sent that message loud and clear over the last six weeks," he told BFBS Forces News. "He may be a deal-maker, but he's definitely not a seller."

The F-47, part of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, is designed to replace the F-22 and operate alongside autonomous drone wingmen. The aircraft, reportedly in secret testing for nearly five years, features a tailless stealth design with canards, a high-dihedral wing structure, and a broad nose that may house an advanced radar system.

Trump claimed the aircraft would be "the most advanced, most capable, most lethal" fighter ever built and that production was already underway. However, Bagwell cautioned that such programs do not move as quickly as Trump suggested, pointing out that the U.S. Air Force paused the project last year to decide whether it should be a manned or unmanned platform.

The mention of export restrictions comes amid growing skepticism from foreign customers regarding U.S. defense policies. Germany previously reconsidered its F-35 purchase over rumors of a U.S. "kill switch," though the deal ultimately moved forward. Portugal recently canceled its planned F-35 order, citing concerns over U.S. policy unpredictability, and Canada is reviewing its procurement despite initial payments.

Meanwhile, Chinese military analysts have scrutinized the F-47’s design, particularly its use of canards, which they argue could impact stealth performance. Some have speculated that Boeing’s reliance on older design elements suggests limitations in its technological capabilities.

As concerns over security restrictions grow, potential buyers may look for alternatives, such as European or indigenous fighter programs, rather than committing to the F-47 with uncertainty over its export controls.