Boeing Wins $20 Billion Contract for US Navy's Next-Gen Stealth Fighter

Boeing has been awarded a $20 billion contract by the US Navy to build its next-generation stealth fighter, the F/A-XX. This marks Boeing's second consecutive major win on fighter jets and capping months of delay over the program.

The program, which is central to countering China in the Pacific, had faced engineering and supply-chain capacity concerns, but Congress intervened by earmarking $750 million for the program in the 2025 tax-cut and spending law and an additional $1.4 billion in fiscal 2026.

Boeing beat out rival Northrop Grumman Corp for the development contract, which will produce test aircraft. The new jet is expected to feature advanced stealth capabilities, improved range and endurance, and the ability to integrate with uncrewed combat aircraft and the Navy's carrier-based air defense systems.