Boeing Wins $20 Billion Deal to Develop F-47, America’s Next-Gen Fighter Jet
The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Boeing a massive $20 billion contract to develop the F-47, a next-generation fighter jet under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. The announcement was made by former President Donald Trump during a White House briefing on March 21.
F-47: The Future of Air Combat
The F-47 is set to replace the aging F-22 Raptor and will be the most advanced combat aircraft ever built. Boeing secured the contract over Lockheed Martin, a strong competitor known for developing the F-22 and F-35 fighter jets.
Trump emphasized that the F-47 would feature revolutionary stealth technology, unmatched maneuverability, and superior air combat capabilities. He also revealed that a prototype version of the aircraft had been secretly test-flown for nearly five years.
Though details remain classified, the U.S. Air Force has released a minimal outline of the jet’s nose design. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the deal as a historic milestone for American air power.
Boeing Expands Production for F-47
To support the project, Boeing is expanding its operations in St. Louis, Missouri, where the company currently produces the F/A-18 Super Hornet, which will be phased out by 2027. The resources from the Super Hornet program will be redirected to NGAD-related work.
Additionally, Boeing will build three new facilities in St. Louis:
- A laboratory and testing center
- An advanced coatings facility
- A final assembly hall
A separate plant in Arizona will be developed to produce advanced composite materials for the F-47’s airframe.
NGAD: A $28 Billion Investment in Air Superiority
General David W. Allvin, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, stated that the F-47 will be the centerpiece of the NGAD program, integrating next-generation technologies to maintain U.S. air dominance for decades. The total cost of the NGAD program is expected to exceed $28 billion by 2029, making it one of the largest investments in American air combat capabilities.
With Boeing at the helm of the F-47’s development, the U.S. is positioning itself to lead the next era of aerial warfare, ensuring its superiority in future conflicts.
