Boeing Wins Pentagon Contract to Build US Navy's Sixth-Generation F/A-XX Fighter

Boeing has won the contract to build the U.S. Navy's next-generation carrier-based fighter, the F/A-XX, after prevailing over competitor Northrop Grumman, according to a report by The Next Web (https://thenextweb.com/news/boeing-f-a-xx-navy-sixth-generation-fighter-contract) following the Pentagon's announcement on Tuesday.

The development contract to produce initial test aircraft is valued at $20 billion according to Reuters, while CNBC and Axios reported the value at more than $20 billion. The overall program could expand to hundreds of billions of dollars over its operational lifespan.

The F/A-XX is scheduled to replace the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, which has operated from aircraft carriers since the 1990s. Once deployed alongside Lockheed Martin's F-35C, the aircraft will feature stealth capabilities, extended operational range, and compatibility with uncrewed aircraft, Reuters reported. Boeing stated that specific design specifications remain classified. Initial production aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the 2030s.

"It's an honor to be selected to produce the Navy's first sixth-generation platform," said Steve Parker, chief executive of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, in a statement. Michael Duffey, the Pentagon's chief weapons buyer, described the platform as "a crucial, non-negotiable investment" in U.S. security.

The contract marks Boeing's second sixth-generation fighter selection within two years, following the U.S. Air Force's decision to select the company for the F-47 in 2025. The Navy program previously faced internal pushback from some Pentagon officials who sought delays of up to three years over engineering and supply-chain concerns, though Congress maintained funding. The Navy previously eliminated Lockheed Martin from the competition in March 2025.

Following the announcement, Boeing shares gained 2.25% in extended trading on Tuesday, while Northrop Grumman fell 3.5%, according to Reuters. To support its defense manufacturing operations, Boeing is constructing what it describes as the largest secure manufacturing facility in the U.S. in St. Louis.