Top Gun 3 Script in Development with Cruise, Director Kosinski

Following the critical and commercial success of Top Gun: Maverick, director Joseph Kosinski and screenwriter Ehren Kruger are developing a third installment in the franchise, with Tom Cruise confirmed to reprise his iconic role as Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell. Kosinski described the new script as a "big idea" that took nearly a year to develop, collaborating closely with Navy and Lockheed Martin experts to maintain the franchise's hallmark realism and aerial authenticity. Returning cast members include Miles Teller and Glen Powell, with the story expected to further explore character dynamics and possibly introduce new recruits, setting up a legacy arc for the future. Writer-director Christopher McQuarrie, longtime collaborator with Cruise, is also contributing to the project, emphasizing a compelling narrative with meaningful stakes. The team is deliberately crafting the sequel to open up the story in fresh and ambitious ways, aiming for a release around 2027 or 2028. While the third film was initially unexpected given Maverick's seemingly conclusive ending, the creative team is confident the new storyline presents a compelling challenge worth pursuing.