Navy’s F/A-XX Fighter Program Advances Following Congressional Support
The United States Navy is poised for significant advancements in its F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter jet program, following renewed funding from Congress. Vice Adm. Daniel Cheever, commander of Naval Air Forces, highlighted the importance of this next-generation aircraft during a recent event at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).
A Future of Air Superiority
Vice Adm. Cheever expressed enthusiasm about the impending selection of a contractor to develop the F/A-XX, stating that the aircraft is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring air superiority. He emphasized that air dominance is vital for maintaining sea control globally.
- Key Quote: “Sixth-generation means air superiority in that timeframe in the future… as long as you have air superiority, you have sea control around the globe,” said Cheever.
Congressional Action Rescues the Program
Earlier this year, the Navy was on the brink of announcing a decision regarding the F/A-XX contractor. However, the process stalled as the service faced funding cuts in its proposed 2026 budget, which jeopardized the program’s future.
Fortunately, recent actions from Congress have reversed these reductions:
- Senate Appropriators: Allocated $1.4 billion to the F/A-XX initiative.
- House Appropriators: Added $972 million in their budget overview.
These developments indicate that the F/A-XX program is back on track, aligning with Cheever’s positive remarks.
Competitive Landscape
The race to contract the F/A-XX project is primarily between Northrop Grumman and Boeing. Notably, Lockheed Martin excluded itself from the bidding in March. Boeing has already secured a contract to produce the Air Force’s sixth-generation F-47 fighter, raising concerns within the Pentagon regarding the capacity of U.S. defense manufacturers to simultaneously produce two advanced platforms. Nonetheless, industry leaders have countered these apprehensions, asserting their capability to manage multiple projects effectively.
Operational Capabilities
The F/A-XX is designed to operate from aircraft carriers and will serve as a replacement for the F/A-18 Super Hornet and the EA-18 Growler. The Navy aims for the new fighter to offer approximately 25% greater range than its predecessors, enhancing operational flexibility and effectiveness.
Vice Adm. Cheever reaffirmed that the future of naval aviation will involve not only sixth-generation aircraft but also collaborative combat systems that work in tandem with unmanned platforms. He stated, “The mix of fourth, fifth, and sixth generation, alongside unmanned teaming, is crucial to our strategic advantage.”
Conclusion
The revival of the F/A-XX program represents a significant step forward for the Navy in sustaining its air superiority and ensuring control over the maritime domain. As Congress supports funding and a contractor is selected, the impending advancements in naval aviation could redefine the landscape of aerial combat for years to come.
