The US Navy has awarded Boeing a multi-billion-dollar contract to produce its F/A-XX aircraft, intended to replace the service’s fleet of F/A-18 Super Hornets. Boeing says the aircraft will bring advances in open mission systems architecture and operational reach and capacity, though the technical and programmatic details of F/A-XX remain classified under US national security and export laws.

“It’s an honour to be selected to produce the Navy’s first sixth-generation platform. 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,” said Steve Parker, president and chief executive officer, Boeing Defence, Space & Security. The contract is Boeing’s second selection for sixth-generation fighter work, following the award of the US Air Force’s F-47 programme in 2025. “Delivering two advanced fighters in parallel was always our plan, and we invested accordingly. We are ready and able to build multiple concurrent future combat aircraft franchise programs,” said Parker.

Construction continues on a secure manufacturing facility in St. Louis, which Boeing describes as the largest of its kind in the United States and says will be part of its wider digital aerospace design and manufacturing system. “Investment in facilities is just one part of the story; we’re also investing in technology and people so that we can deliver for our customers,” Parker added.