The U.S. Air Force is set to begin production on the F-47, intended to advance air dominance capabilities.
During a joint press conference with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, former President
Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Air Force will advance the development of the F-47, the world's first sixth-generation fighter aircraft.
Trump claimed that the experimental version of the F-47 has been in flight for nearly five years and confirmed that Boeing will be the primary contractor for its production.
Trump highlighted that following a rigorous competition among some of the largest U.S. aerospace companies, the contract for the next-generation air dominance platform would be awarded to Boeing.
He described the new aircraft as "something that no one has seen before."
General David Olvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, referred to the F-47 as the "crown jewel of the next generation air dominance system," emphasizing its role in developing a new era of modern aerial warfare.
In late 2022, the U.S. Air Force deferred its production decision, stating that the final determination would lie with the Trump administration.
The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program aims to produce a sixth-generation fighter aircraft that will surpass the capabilities of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, which has faced significant cost overruns and delays.
Billionaire
Elon Musk has been critical of the F-35, advocating in favor of unmanned aerial vehicles as a more cost-effective and efficient weapon system.
The contract awarded to Boeing for the F-47 comes at a crucial time for the company, which has faced challenges in recent years.
The NGAD program is intended to replace the F-22 Raptor by Lockheed Martin, recognized as the world’s first fifth-generation fighter jet.
Reports indicate that the NGAD will be a crewed aircraft designed to engage in combat alongside unmanned aerial vehicles.
While the design specifics remain classified, it is expected to incorporate stealth technology, advanced sensors, and cutting-edge engines.
Trump mentioned that the F-47 would be available for international sale, although a price point has not been disclosed.
Following the announcement, Boeing's stock rose by five percent, while Lockheed Martin's shares experienced a decline of nearly six percent.