The U.S. Navy is on the verge of announcing which defense contractor will be elected to build the next generation of carrier-based fighter jets. Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman remain in contention.
At stake is the successor to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the backbone of the Navy’s carrier air wings for decades. According to insiders, a decision is expected this week as the Navy prepares to award the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract—a major milestone in the F/A-XX program. This initial phase is worth several billion dollars, but the long-term value of the program could rise to hundreds of billions over the coming decades.
The future fighter jet is expected to feature cutting-edge stealth capabilities, extended range and endurance, and seamless integration with both unmanned aircraft and carrier strike group defense systems.
Three Industry Giants Competing
Sources close to the decision say Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman are still in the running. Boeing recently gained momentum by winning the U.S. Air Force’s F-47 fighter jet contract, despite internal setbacks such as labor strikes and technical issues with the Starliner capsule and KC-46 tanker. Boeing is also developing the MQ-25 Stingray, an unmanned carrier-based refueling drone, which aligns well with the Navy’s future vision.
Northrop Grumman brings a strong track record in stealth technology, including the B-2 Spirit and the upcoming B-21 Raider. Lockheed Martin, manufacturer of the F-35, was initially seen as a frontrunner. However, the company has reportedly struggled to meet certain Navy requirements, such as radar capabilities and carrier landing performance. A Reuters report previously suggested Lockheed may have dropped out of the competition, though no official confirmation has been provided by the Navy.
A Strategic and Lucrative Program
The F/A-XX program plays a critical role in the U.S. strategy to counter China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific. While the first F/A-XX jets aren’t expected to enter service until the 2030s, the current Super Hornets are likely to remain in operation into the 2040s.
The new fighter jet is seen as essential to maintaining the Navy’s future air superiority, with an emphasis on stealth, extended range, and manned-unmanned teaming. The full scope of the program could span decades and represent one of the most lucrative defense contracts in modern history.