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Navy to Downselect F/A-XX Fighter Maker in August

April 1, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

The Navy will choose the F/A-XX fighter maker in August.
Boeing and Northrop Grumman are competing for the contract.
The program will replace the F/A-18 Super Hornets and E/A-18 Growlers.
The decision has been delayed for about a year.

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Strategic Implications

The F/A-XX downselect may signal the Navy's commitment to advancing its air capabilities, which could impact the competitive landscape of the defense industry. The decision may also indicate the service's priorities in addressing peer competitors' improving anti-air capabilities, and suggests a significant investment in next-generation fighter technology.

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What Happened

Boeing And Northrop Grumman Compete For Sixth Generation Contract

The US Navy expects to select the manufacturer of its sixth-generation F/A-XX fighter in August, according to the Chief of Naval Operations. The decision will conclude a prolonged competition between Boeing and Northrop Grumman, which has been delayed due to Pentagon considerations about canceling the program. The F/A-XX program aims to replace the Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornets and E/A-18 Growlers, and has received strong support from Congress, with additional funding allocated in the fiscal 2026 budget. The announcement was made by Adm. Daryl Caudle at the Sea Air Space conference, as reported by Breaking Defense.

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