Lockheed Martin Looks Beyond NGAD Loss, Eyes Future Air Superiority Programs
Lockheed Martin, long considered a leader in the development of advanced combat aircraft, has found itself in an unusual position after losing out on the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. The announcement, made by former President Donald Trump, confirmed Boeing as the primary contractor for the highly classified program, which aims to replace the F-22 Raptor with a new, next-generation fighter. While Lockheed expressed disappointment, the company made it clear that it remains fully committed to pushing the boundaries of air superiority technologies.
The NGAD program, officially designated as the F-47, represents a paradigm shift in air combat. Featuring cutting-edge stealth, sensors, and propulsion systems, the aircraft will integrate manned and unmanned teaming—an approach expected to define future warfare. The initial engineering and manufacturing development contract, reportedly valued at over $20 billion, is only the beginning. With production and operational deployment, the program could see total costs soaring into the hundreds of billions.
Lockheed Martin had been one of the strongest contenders, given its track record with the F-22 and F-35. The company’s expertise in stealth technology, advanced avionics, and integrated combat systems made it a natural fit for NGAD. However, Boeing, which has also been involved in numerous classified programs, ultimately secured the contract. The decision reflects shifting dynamics within the defense industry, where competition is intensifying as the Pentagon seeks diversified solutions for maintaining air dominance.
Despite this setback, Lockheed Martin is unlikely to fade into the background. The defense giant remains deeply invested in developing next-generation air combat solutions. The company has emphasized that it will continue to work on technologies such as sixth-generation fighter capabilities, artificial intelligence-driven combat networks, and next-level unmanned systems. Lockheed’s Skunk Works division—responsible for many of the U.S. military’s most advanced aircraft—remains a powerhouse of innovation, and its ongoing projects could still shape the future of aerial warfare.
Moreover, NGAD is not the only game in town. The U.S. military’s modernization roadmap includes multiple programs aimed at sustaining its dominance in contested airspace. Lockheed’s continued involvement in classified initiatives, potential collaborations with allied nations, and possible participation in future upgrade cycles for NGAD suggest that it remains a key player in next-generation combat aviation.
While losing NGAD is a blow, Lockheed Martin’s long-term strategy remains focused on developing and delivering cutting-edge air superiority solutions. In an era where air dominance is increasingly defined by adaptability and multi-domain operations, the company’s experience and innovation will likely ensure its relevance in future programs.
