437 Vanguard | the new F-35 and F-22 Wingman

About this video

Max discusses the Northrop Grumman 437 Vanguard, a new unmanned (though pilot-capable) aircraft designed to serve as a wingman for F-35s and F-22s. Max explains that the aircraft was developed using extensive computer-based design and testing by Scaled Composites, which he argues significantly reduced development costs and time compared to traditional methods. Max describes the Vanguard as a lightweight, cost-effective platform intended to act as a missile or bomb truck alongside fifth-generation fighters, with potential for directed energy weapons and multiple mission variants.

Key takeaways

• Max argues the 437 Vanguard represents a breakthrough in aircraft development by using AI and computer simulation to complete most design and testing digitally, potentially saving hundreds of millions of dollars compared to programs like the F-35
• Max describes the aircraft as designed by Scaled Composites (in partnership with Northrop) to serve as a force multiplier—a lightweight, stealthy missile/bomb truck controlled from F-35, F-22, or F-15EX cockpits
• Max notes the Vanguard’s predecessor, the Model 401, went from design to flight testing in only 24 months, and speculates the Vanguard may carry directed energy weapons and have multiple variants including fully autonomous versions

Episode details: published September 15, 2024 · 5.4K views · 10:48 long. Summary written by Self Growth Videos from the episode itself. The analysis and commentary described are Max Afterburner’s, attributed to him — his channel includes hypothetical-scenario and news-react content, which is presented as his analysis, not established fact.

← Previous: Real F-16 Pilot Dogfights 16 Russian Jets! | Digital Combat Simulator · Next: Real Fighter Pilot Top Gun Maverick Mission ATTEMPT 2 →

All Max Afterburner videos · Max Afterburner profile · Max Afterburner on YouTube