Navy Nears F/A-XX Fighter Selection
The U.S. Navy is advancing toward a key milestone in its next-generation fighter program, the F/A-XX, with a down selection of a prime contractor expected soon. Despite speculation about potential delays, Vice Adm. Daniel Cheever reaffirmed that the program remains on track and continues to be one of the Navy’s top aviation priorities.
Two aerospace giants—Boeing and Northrop Grumman—are seen as the leading contenders to secure the contract. The F/A-XX program is central to the Navy’s broader modernization strategy, designed to deliver significant improvements in both capability and survivability compared to the current fleet of carrier-based aircraft.
One of the most notable goals of the program is a 25% increase in range, a factor that will enhance the Navy’s ability to project power over greater distances while reducing reliance on aerial refueling. Improved survivability and advanced mission systems are also expected to strengthen the Navy’s ability to operate in contested environments.
The U.S. Navy’s F/A-XX program, also called Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) for the Navy, is being developed to replace the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet when those aircraft start to retire in the 2030s.
- Primary replacement: F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (mainstay carrier-based strike fighter). The Navy plans to phase out Super Hornets in the early–mid 2030s.
- Secondary overlap: It will also complement and eventually succeed the EA-18G Growler (the electronic attack version of the F-18 Super Hornet), though the Navy hasn’t finalized whether Growlers will be directly replaced by F/A-XX variants or unmanned systems.
- Not replacing: The F-35C Lightning II is expected to continue flying alongside the F/A-XX as the Navy’s stealth multirole fighter. The F/A-XX is envisioned as a larger, longer-range, more survivable “air dominance” platform with advanced sensors, weapons, and likely some level of unmanned teaming.
The F/A-XX will form a critical part of the Navy’s future carrier air wings, complementing existing platforms while gradually replacing older fighters. As adversaries expand their long-range strike and air defense capabilities, the Navy’s push for extended range and advanced technology underscores the urgency of this program.
With industry competition heating up and a decision drawing closer, the F/A-XX effort marks a defining step in shaping the future of U.S. naval aviation and ensuring readiness for next-generation air combat challenges.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com