Boeing F/A-XX Fighter

Defense Systems Full Specifications

Boeing F/A-XX Sixth-Generation Navy Fighter

The Boeing F/A-XX is the U.S. Navy’s planned sixth-generation carrier-based fighter, developed to extend the reach and survivability of the future carrier air wing. On September 29, 2026, the Navy selected Boeing for the program’s full-scale development phase under the broader Next Generation Air Dominance effort. The contract is valued at more than $20 billion and includes multiple test aircraft for ground, airworthiness, systems, and weapons integration testing.

The aircraft is intended to begin augmenting and eventually replace the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleets during the 2030s. It is expected to operate alongside the carrier-based F-35C and work as part of a networked force that includes unmanned aircraft and Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

Manufacturer and Role

Boeing is the prime contractor. The company was selected over Northrop Grumman after a competitive development effort. Boeing’s F/A-XX award follows its 2025 selection for the U.S. Air Force’s sixth-generation F-47 program.

Public information identifies advanced mission systems, open mission systems architecture, increased operational reach, survivability, networking, and integration with manned and unmanned platforms as important elements of the program. However, detailed specifications remain classified or have not been publicly released.

Speed, Range and Technology

The Navy has not publicly disclosed the F/A-XX’s maximum speed, combat radius, fuel capacity, radar range, weapons load, dimensions, or engine specifications. Navy planning documents have emphasized greater range, speed, sensor capability, and integration with unmanned systems.

Cost and Price

The current development contract is valued at more than $20 billion. This figure represents the full-scale development phase and should not be treated as a confirmed production unit price.

Variants