In a significant development for the U.S. military aviation sector, former President Donald Trump announced that Boeing has been awarded the contract to develop the Air Force’s next-generation stealth fighter jet, designated the F-47. This announcement was made during a press event at the White House, where Trump highlighted the aircraft’s capabilities and significance to national defense.
The decision to select Boeing for the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform is seen as a crucial step in modernizing the U.S. Air Force’s aerial combat capabilities. The F-47, which is intended as a replacement for the aging F-22 Raptor, is expected to feature advanced technologies that enable it to work in tandem with uncrewed drones, enhancing operational capabilities in complex environments. Trump praised the aircraft, stating, “Nothing in the world comes even close to it… it’s a beautiful number, F-47,” reflecting confidence in its design and potential impact on military operations.
Boeing’s selection is a critical boost for the company, especially following the challenges it faced in the past year, including a series of labor strikes and safety issues affecting its civilian airliners. The announcement comes at a time when the aerospace industry is under significant pressure to innovate and deliver advanced technologies.
During the announcement, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the strategic implications of the F-47, asserting that it sends a strong message of commitment to U.S. allies and a warning to adversaries. He stated that the new aircraft would ensure the United States could “project power around the globe unimpeded for generations to come.”
While Trump did not disclose the anticipated cost of the contract due to security concerns, it follows considerable scrutiny regarding the financial implications of the NGAD project. The Congressional Budget Office previously estimated the airframe costs could reach up to $300 million each, raising questions about budget feasibility alongside other defense projects currently underway, such as the B-21 Raider bomber.
Competitors also responded to the news; Lockheed Martin, which was in contention for the contract, expressed disappointment but maintained confidence in its competitive proposal. Meanwhile, Boeing reiterated its legacy in fighter aircraft and its commitment to setting new standards for sixth-generation capabilities in aerospace.
Interest in the NGAD program had previously waned following a pause in 2024 due to rising costs and a broader review of military expenditures, overseen by the Trump administration. However, a recent study conducted by the Air Force reaffirmed the necessity of the NGAD initiative, emphasizing the importance of air superiority in contemporary combat scenarios.
Major General Joseph Kunkel highlighted the findings from the study, stating, “What this study told us is… there is no more viable option than NGAD to achieve air superiority in this highly contested environment.”
Although specific details about the F-47’s capabilities remain limited, Trump conveyed confidence that the new fighter jet would be “virtually unseeable,” with unparalleled maneuverability and the capacity to integrate with a variety of drone systems. As the development of the F-47 unfolds, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of air combat, marking a significant milestone for both Boeing and the U.S. Air Force.
