Boeing to produce F/A-XX aircraft for US Navy

written by Robert Dougherty | September 30, 2026

The US Navy released this artist’s rendering of the Boeing F/A-XX, highlighting the Navy’s 6th-generation fighter intended to replace the service’s fleet of F/A-18 Super Hornets.

American defence prime Boeing has secured a multi-billion-dollar contract to produce its F/A-XX aircraft for the US Navy.

Boeing says the fighter will revolutionise advancements in open mission systems architecture, advanced mission systems and operational reach and capacity. F/A-XX is intended to replace the service’s fleet of F/A-18 Super Hornets, according to Boeing in an investor statement released earlier today.

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The contract is Boeing’s second selection for 6th-generation fighter work following the award of the US Air Force’s F-47 program in 2025.

“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,” according Steve Parker, president and chief executive officer, Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

“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.”

 
 

Construction continues on Boeing’s secure manufacturing facility, the largest in the US. Located in St. Louis, the facility will be part of the world’s most advanced, all-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 said.

The technical and programmatic details of F/A-XX remain classified under US national security and export laws.

For more defence and national security news and insights, visit Defence Connect.

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