Boeing Beats Northrop to Build the US Navy’s $20bn F/A-XX Fighter
Boeing will build the US Navy’s next carrier-based fighter, the F/A-XX, after defeating Northrop Grumman in a competitive bid. The Pentagon announced this award on Tuesday.
Development Contract Details
The development contract is valued at approximately $20 billion to produce test aircraft, according to Reuters, with CNBC and Axios estimating it could exceed $0 billion. The program is expected to grow significantly over its lifespan.
"It’s an honor to be selected to produce the Navy’s first sixth-generation platform," said Steve Parker, CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
What the Jet Replaces
The F/A-XX will replace the existing F/A-18 Super Hornet, also built by Boeing. The Super Hornet has been in service since the 1990s and will operate alongside the Lockheed Martin F-35C. Its specific design details remain classified.
The jet is expected to be stealthy, have extended range, and work seamlessly with unmanned aircraft. Production jets are scheduled for the 2030s.
Boeing's Sixth-Generation Victory
This win marks Boeing’s second sixth-generation fighter contract in two years, following their success with the Air Force’s F-47 in 2025. Some Pentagon officials had advocated for a delay, citing engineering challenges and supply chain constraints, but Congress intervened, securing funding for the program.
Market Impact
Boeing shares rose 2.25% in extended trading on Tuesday, while Northrop Grumman stock dropped 3.5%, according to Reuters. Boeing is currently constructing its largest secure manufacturing facility in the US, located in St. Louis.
Recent Pentagon contracts, including a $1.6 billion award to SpaceX for its Golden Dome missile shield, have also involved significant investments in advanced technologies, with some work tailored specifically for SpaceX. Startups are also making waves in the AI-piloted fighter jet space.