Boeing
Boeing has won a $20 billion defense contract. Latin Times

Boeing has been chosen to manufacture the Navy's sixth-generation carrier-based fighter jet. The contract to build the F/A-XX Strike Fighter under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is valued at $20 billion.

"The F/A-XX is a critical pillar in our commitment to maintaining peace through strength. F/A-XX will dominate contested airspace, extend operational reach, and deliver a decisive combat advantage for the warfighter," Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment said when discussing the decision.

Boeing beat out rival Northrop Grumman to win the contract. Defense News noted that in 2025, Boeing beat out Lockheed Martin for the chance to build the air forces sixth-generation fighter. Winning the Navy contract as well means that Boeing effectively has a monopoly on the development of sixth generation fighters.

"The F/A-XX platform represents a crucial, non-negotiable investment in America's national security and long-term air combat capabilities," Duffey said. "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."

According to the military, the F/A-XX program will extend the range and reach of U.S. Navy carriers. Also, the F/A-XX will be interoperable with manned and unmanned platforms such as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), increasing capability.

"This achievement marks a new era for the U.S. Navy," said acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao. "The Sixth-Generation fighter is a generational leap in air superiority and will provide the world's best aviators with unparalleled capabilities to fight, win, and come home safe. We are excited to partner with Boeing, and for our warfighters to continue to dominate the skies and defeat our nation's enemies."

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Defense News reported that F/A-XX is expected to be a key part of the Navy's fighter fleet. It will operate with the F-35 and help phase out older fighter aircraft in coming years.

"It's an honor to be selected to produce the Navy's first sixth-generation platform," Steve Parker, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, told Defense News. "Backed by decades of work, bolstered by game-changing innovations and solidified by the investments we've made in new facilities uniquely suited to build multiple products with next-generation capabilities, our dedicated and talented team is ready to execute this critical program."