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Navy Chief Urges F/A-XX Program Acceleration

January 27, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Navy Chief Adm. Daryl Caudle calls for F/A-XX program acceleration.
F/A-XX needed to counter advanced anti-aircraft systems.
Program to receive $897 million in funding for development contract.

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Strategic Implications

The Navy's push for F/A-XX acceleration may indicate a growing concern about the vulnerability of its current F-18 fleet to emerging air defense threats. This could suggest a shift in naval aviation priorities, with a focus on next-generation capabilities to maintain air superiority, which may have significant implications for the defense industrial base and the development of future fighter programs.

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What Happened

Admiral Caudle Warns Of Rising Air Defense Threats To F-18 Fleet

The US Navy’s Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Daryl Caudle, emphasized the need to accelerate the F/A-XX stealth fighter program due to the rapid spread of advanced anti-aircraft systems, which pose a significant threat to the Navy’s current F-18 fleet. Caudle highlighted the importance of F/A-XX’s advanced capabilities, including stealth, range, and electronic warfare, to reliably penetrate future air defenses. The program is set to receive $897 million in funding for a development contract, as reported by Breaking Defense.

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