Fifth Generation fighters are impressive with their "sensor fusion," low signatures, and advanced handling, but what's next? What happens to air warfare when adversaries' capabilities and lethality reach parity with—or exceed—our own?

On this episode, retired U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Lance “Pink” Floyd joins new cohost Matt "Flounder" Arny to explore the possible factors and aircraft attributes liable to define air combat in the decades ahead, such as artificial intelligence, extreme speed, optional manning, and more.

Listener questions addressed on this episode include military aviator currency—including annual medical exams, the possibility of an MH53 Pave Low episode, and altimeter settings during carrierbased flight operations.

Episode artwork by Janek Krause. Bumper music by Jaime Lopez / announcements by Clint Bell.