Source: Fox News
Summary
The U.S. Navy has awarded Boeing a $20 billion contract to develop the F/A-XX, a sixth-generation fighter jet intended to replace some of the service’s older aircraft and enhance carrier operations. The deal marks Boeing’s second sixth-generation fighter program, following its selection for the Air Force’s F-47 in 2025. The contract includes test aircraft for ground testing and systems integration. Officials described the F/A-XX as a key component of maintaining air superiority and national security. The aircraft will work with manned and unmanned systems and is expected to begin deployment in the 2030s.
Our Reading
As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Boeing builds another fighter jet for the military.
Officials praise the contract as a step forward.
Missouri celebrates its role in the project.
The fighter will replace old planes and work with new ones.
Author: Evan Null
Boeing’s New Fighter Jet Contract
The U.S. Navy has awarded Boeing a $20 billion contract to develop the F/A-XX, a sixth-generation fighter jet. This decision comes as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance program. The F/A-XX is intended to replace older aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers. The contract includes multiple test aircraft for ground testing and systems integration. The Navy emphasized the importance of the F/A-XX in maintaining air superiority and national security.
Boeing’s Second Sixth-Generation Fighter Program
This is Boeing’s second sixth-generation fighter program, following its selection for the Air Force’s F-47 in 2025. Steve Parker, president and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, stated that the company is ready to build multiple concurrent future combat aircraft programs. The F/A-XX is part of a broader effort to ensure the U.S. maintains a technological edge in air combat. The Navy and Boeing have been working together to develop advanced capabilities for the future.
Officials Praise the Contract
Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao called the contract the beginning of a new era for the service. He stated that the F/A-XX represents a generational leap in air superiority and will provide aviators with unparalleled capabilities. The Department of War emphasized the importance of the F/A-XX in extending the Navy’s operational reach and working alongside both manned and unmanned aircraft. The fighter is also expected to increase the capabilities of the unmanned aircraft it teams with.
Missouri Celebrates the Win
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe celebrated the announcement, highlighting the state’s role in building America’s next generation of military aircraft. He called St. Louis “Fighterland, USA” and praised the win as a way to cement Missouri’s position as a leader in air dominance and national defense. The contract includes construction of a secure manufacturing facility in St. Louis, which will be used to build the F/A-XX. Boeing has been investing in facilities, technology, and people to support the program.
Future Deployment and Replacement
The F/A-XX is expected to begin deployment in the 2030s, augmenting and eventually replacing legacy F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers. It will also operate alongside the F-35C. The Department of War stated that the fighter will bring advances in mission systems and operational reach. While technical and program details remain classified, the Navy and Boeing have been working closely to ensure the F/A-XX meets the needs of the service. The project is part of a broader effort to maintain U.S. military superiority in the coming decades.
