The U.S. Department of War has approved the next-generation F/A-XX stealth aircraft program for the Navy, which has faced significant delays due to funding disputes between the Pentagon and Congress.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has decided to proceed with the program, choosing between Boeing and Northrop Grumman to design and produce the advanced stealth jet. The F/A-XX is a crucial component of the U.S. strategy to counter China’s growing military capabilities. The program, which aims to replace the aging F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet, has been delayed as Congress and the Navy pushed for accelerated development.
The decision follows negotiations that eventually led to the passage of the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ in early July, which provided additional funding for the project. The first F/A-XX jets are expected to enter service in the 2030s, though details on production numbers, costs, and timelines remain classified.
China is reportedly rapidly developing at least two sixth-generation stealth fighter jets, with several images of their prototypes performing flight tests appearing on social media over the past year. One of them is believed to be the J-36, a large aircraft with a tailless design and a rare three-engine setup. The other, described as the J-50, is reportedly a smaller jet with V-shaped wings.