The U.S. Department of Defense selected Boeing to develop the Navy's next-generation stealth fighter. The contract is worth around $20 billion, edging out rival Northrop Grumman. The total value of the overall program could grow, including through future mass production and potential overseas orders.
The U.S. Department of Defense selected Boeing to develop the Navy's next-generation stealth fighter. The contract includes development of prototypes and is worth around $20 billion. Boeing edged out rival Northrop Grumman and is expected to advance the Navy's long-term plans.
The program is positioned as a foundation for countering China in the Pacific region and reportedly moved forward after delays lasting several months. It is also intended to support full-scale production and future orders from overseas customers, and the total value of the overall program could grow to several hundred billion dollars.
Boeing was also selected in March 2025 to develop the Air Force's new F-47 stealth fighter, securing major contracts for sixth-generation fighters for 2 consecutive years. Its track record with carrier-based Navy fighters had made it a leading candidate in the selection process.
In market reaction, Boeing's share price rose in after-hours trading, while Northrop fell.