Stavatti Aerospace released its SM-39 Razor fighter concept in January 2026, positioning the high-speed stealth aircraft as a sixth-generation contender for the U.S. Navy's Next Carrier Air Dominance effort to replace aging carrier-based jets with superior American technology.
The Minnesota-based company describes the aircraft as a twin-engine, low-observable stealth platform capable of Mach 4-plus speeds, designed for air superiority, air dominance, and fighter-bomber roles. Stavatti aims to replace or supplement existing fleets such as the F-22, F-15, and F/A-18E/F.
The design features a blended wing-body configuration, sharp angular lines, faceted surfaces for reduced radar signature, and inward-canted vertical stabilizers. Renderings show a sleek, arrowhead-shaped fuselage with minimal protrusions, giving the jet an aggressive, otherworldly appearance reminiscent of alien spacecraft in science fiction movies like Independence Day.
The SM-39 includes internal weapon bays for stealth carriage of multiple beyond-visual-range missiles or 2,000-pound precision bombs, plus an internal 20 mm cannon.
Power comes from two next-generation adaptive cycle afterburning turbofans, potentially using Stavatti's proprietary NeoThrust concept. The aircraft supports piloted or unpiloted autonomous operations, with a projected unit cost of around $85 million, which the company claims is far below estimates for comparable sixth-generation platforms.
Stavatti CEO Chris Beskar leads the effort, pushing the Razor's focus on extreme speed, lethality, and cost efficiency.
Stavatti has submitted the concept directly to the U.S. military branches, arguing it offers a disruptive alternative to proposals from established contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The company highlights the SM-39's potential for long-range strikes, networked warfare, and integration with directed energy weapons.
Critics note Stavatti's lack of production experience. Founded in the 1990s, the firm has proposed various aircraft over the years, including the Machete attack plane in 2009, but none have advanced to manufacturing. Supporters argue that innovative outsiders can challenge stagnant defense procurement and drive better value for taxpayers.
The Navy seeks a successor to fifth-generation fighters. If selected, the Razor could accelerate competition in the program, benefiting American forces with superior technology.
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