Northrop Grumman has released the official concept image of the next-generation F/A-XX fighter jet, planned for use by the U.S. Navy’s future aircraft carrier fleets, on its website. However, the program’s future remains uncertain, as the Pentagon and the White House have expressed concerns that the F/A-XX efforts could slow down the U.S. Air Force’s F-47 development process.
With Lockheed Martin withdrawing from the program in 2024, Boeing and Northrop Grumman emerged as the leading contenders in the F/A-XX competition. Both companies are heavily involved in next-generation aircraft development projects for the Air Force: Boeing with the F-47 fighter jet under the NGAD program, and Northrop Grumman with the B-21 Raider bomber.
The released concept image features a silhouette positioned on an aircraft carrier deck. Stealth capabilities and advanced radar signature reduction are among the design’s highlighted features. The airframe has a sharp nose expected to integrate an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. The aircraft is equipped with carrier-specific features such as catapult-assisted takeoff and dual-wheel landing gear.
The F/A-XX is at the core of the Navy’s NGAD program’s combat power. First proposed in 2008, the concept was officially announced in 2012 as a replacement for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet. Navy officials prioritize extended range, high speed, advanced sensor integration, and compatibility with long-range weapons among the program’s key requirements.
The next-generation fighter aims to offer AI-supported systems, coordination with unmanned aerial vehicles, and 25% longer operational range compared to current platforms. Additionally, it will operate alongside unmanned systems like the MQ-25 Stingray, enhancing effectiveness in future high-information environments.
While $454 million was allocated for the project in the 2025 budget, the Pentagon requested only $74 million for 2026. This situation has caused concerns about the program’s priority between lawmakers and the Navy. The Pentagon is considering sidelining the F/A-XX program to prioritize the Air Force’s F-47 program, citing limited industrial capacity. In contrast, Navy leadership emphasizes that the F/A-XX is critical for maintaining the combat effectiveness of aircraft carrier strike groups in future conflicts.
