Boeing Wins Historic $20B Contract to Develop F-47 Next-Gen Stealth Fighter
Boeing has secured a landmark $20 billion contract to develop the F-47, America's first sixth-generation fighter jet under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, as announced by President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth.
The F-47 will replace the F-22 Raptor, incorporating advanced stealth technology, adaptive engines, and drone-teaming capabilities to revolutionize U.S. air combat operations.
Boeing 737 MAX in flight
Boeing won the contract over competitors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, with their proposal focusing on modular architecture and cost-effective production methods.
Key Features of the F-47:
- Enhanced stealth capabilities with advanced radar-absorbent materials
- AI-assisted targeting and semi-autonomous flight systems
- Capability to coordinate multiple unmanned drones during flight
- Variable-cycle engines for both high-speed and efficient cruising
- Potential hypersonic missile and directed energy weapons integration
Test flights are scheduled for late 2026, with full operational capability expected by 2030. The aircraft will serve as a critical component in countering threats from China and Russia, who are also developing similar aircraft.
The F-47 will operate alongside F-35s and F-15EXs, serving as a central hub in a broader network of military assets. This development marks a significant shift toward integrated air dominance strategy.
For Boeing, this contract represents a major turnaround opportunity following recent challenges in their commercial division. The company's stock rose 4.8% after the announcement.
The program will create new jobs at Boeing's facilities in St. Louis and Seattle, with additional opportunities through subcontractors nationwide. While Boeing leads the project, the NGAD program maintains its collaborative approach with multiple defense technology partners.