The U.S. Navy awarded Boeing a multi-billion-dollar contract to produce the F/A-XX aircraft on Sept. 29, 2026, in St. Louis. The agreement designates Boeing as the prime contractor for the sixth-generation fighter intended to replace the service’s F/A-18 Super Hornet fleet. This marks Boeing’s second selection for advanced fighter development, following a similar award from the U.S. Air Force for its F-47 program in 2025.
What it means
The F/A-XX program prioritizes open mission systems architecture, advanced mission systems, and operational reach. Boeing is currently constructing a secure manufacturing facility in St. Louis, which the company describes as the largest of its kind in the United States. Steve Parker, a Boeing executive, said, “It’s an honor to be selected to produce the Navy’s first sixth-generation platform.” He added that delivering two advanced fighters in parallel was always the company’s plan and that they had invested accordingly. Technical and programmatic details regarding the F/A-XX remain classified under U.S. national security and export laws.
Key facts
- Contract value: Multi-billion dollars
- Award date: Sept. 29, 2026
- Location: St. Louis
- Aircraft type: F/A-XX (sixth-generation fighter)
- Replaces: F/A-18 Super Hornet fleet
- Previous award: U.S. Air Force F-47 program (2025)
- Facility status: Construction ongoing at secure St. Louis site
Source: Boeing news release (PR Newswire)