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The navy fighter program took a major step forward this week after Boeing secured a contract worth more than $20 billion to develop the U.S. Navy’s next-generation carrier-based combat aircraft.
The Department of War announced Tuesday that Boeing will lead full-scale development of the F/A-XX, a sixth-generation strike fighter designed to extend the reach of aircraft carriers and help American pilots dominate contested airspace. The aircraft is expected to eventually replace portions of the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleets beginning in the 2030s.
Historic Navy Fighter Contract Signals a New Era
The agreement includes multiple test aircraft for ground testing, airworthiness evaluations, systems integration and weapons testing. While many technical details remain classified under U.S. national security and export laws, officials described the platform as a critical investment in the future of naval aviation.
“The F/A-XX is a critical pillar in our commitment to maintaining peace through strength,” Michael P. Duffey, under secretary of war for acquisition and sustainment, said in the announcement. He described the aircraft as a “crucial, non-negotiable investment” in America’s long-term air combat capabilities.
The Navy says the fighter will combine greater operational reach with advanced mission systems and the ability to operate alongside both manned and unmanned aircraft. That includes Collaborative Combat Aircraft, a growing class of autonomous or semi-autonomous platforms intended to support crewed jets in high-risk missions.
Powerful Features Remain Classified
Boeing said the F/A-XX will deliver advances in mission systems, capacity and operational range. The company did not disclose specific performance figures, weapons, sensors or stealth characteristics, but emphasized that the aircraft is intended to work as part of a highly connected combat network.
“We are joining forces with Boeing to field these capabilities rapidly, ensuring our warfighters possess the lethal and highly networked systems required to deter aggression, project undisputed power, and secure absolute air superiority,” Duffey said.
Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao called the contract the beginning of “a new era” for the service. He said the sixth-generation fighter would give Navy aviators advanced capabilities to fight, win and return safely.
“We are excited to partner with Boeing, and for our warfighters to continue to dominate the skies and defeat our nation’s enemies,” Cao said.
Boeing Builds Two Sixth-Generation Fighter Programs
The F/A-XX award gives Boeing its second sixth-generation fighter program. The company was selected in 2025 to develop the Air Force’s F-47, a separate aircraft intended to provide advanced air superiority capabilities.
Steve Parker, president and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, said the company had planned to manage both programs simultaneously and invested in the necessary workforce, technology and facilities.
“Delivering two advanced fighters in parallel was always our plan, and we invested accordingly,” Parker said. “We are ready and able to build multiple concurrent future combat aircraft franchise programs.”
Boeing said construction is continuing on a secure manufacturing facility in St. Louis as the company prepares to produce multiple aircraft with next-generation capabilities. Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe welcomed the decision and highlighted the state’s role in developing future military aircraft.
“St. Louis is Fighterland, USA!” Kehoe wrote on X, celebrating the contract as a major win for Missouri’s defense industry and national security workforce.
What the F/A-XX Means for Aircraft Carriers
- The F/A-XX is designed for carrier-based operations.
- It is expected to replace some F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers during the 2030s.
- The aircraft will operate alongside the F-35C and unmanned combat aircraft.
- The program includes testing for airworthiness, weapons and system integration.
- The fighter is intended to extend the Navy’s reach in contested environments.
The Navy’s future air wing is expected to rely on a combination of crewed fighters, stealth aircraft, drones and networked sensors. The F/A-XX will serve as a central part of that structure, supporting carrier strike groups as potential adversaries develop longer-range missiles, advanced air defenses and increasingly capable aircraft.
The award also comes as the Pentagon focuses on modernizing the defense industrial base and expanding unmanned warfare capabilities. Officials have described speed, production capacity and coordination between crewed and uncrewed platforms as essential to maintaining America’s maritime advantage.
For Boeing, the deal strengthens its position as a leading builder of advanced U.S. combat aircraft. For the Navy, it marks an important move toward replacing aging carrier aviation platforms with a more capable and connected sixth-generation force.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Navy Fighter
What is the F/A-XX?
The F/A-XX is a planned sixth-generation, carrier-based strike fighter being developed for the U.S. Navy by Boeing.
How much is the Boeing Navy fighter contract worth?
The contract is worth more than $20 billion and covers full-scale development, including test aircraft and systems integration.
Which aircraft will the F/A-XX replace?
The F/A-XX is expected to eventually replace some F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers beginning in the 2030s.
Will the F/A-XX operate with drones?
Yes. The Navy says the fighter will work with manned and unmanned aircraft, including Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
