Boeing Wins $20 Billion Contract for Navy's Sixth-Generation Fighter Jet

The US Navy has awarded Boeing a contract worth more than $20 billion to develop its sixth-generation fighter jet, dubbed F/A-XX. The aircraft is designed to eventually replace the F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft, and will operate alongside the F-35C fighter jet.

The new fighter jet offers 'advanced carrier-based power projection that extends the range of the most agile and survivable airfields, U.S. Navy carriers,' according to a Pentagon statement. It will also be able to coordinate with combat drones and operate alongside piloted aircraft.

Boeing was chosen over competitor Northrop Grumman, which offered a 'clean sheet' design that wouldn't share major elements with the F-47, a sixth-generation fighter jet being developed by the Air Force. Boeing pitched a carrier version of its F-47 design, saying it would lead to cost savings and technology sharing.

The Navy has argued that the spread of advanced antiaircraft systems is a concern that underscores the urgent need for a sixth-generation fighter. The program was revived despite Pentagon efforts to sideline it in favor of the Air Force's F-47.