Particle.news
Download on the App Store
12 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Navy Sets August Downselect for F/A‑XX Carrier Fighter

The move signals a push toward development despite supplier strain, uncertain funding.

Image
Image
The notional design of the F/A-XX shown in a video by Northrop Grumman. (Image credit: Northrop Grumman)
Image

Overview

  • The Navy, which said Monday it will pick a winner in August, plans to choose between Boeing and Northrop Grumman for its next‑generation carrier jet.
  • Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle said one of the two bidders cannot deliver on the schedule the service needs.
  • Northrop Grumman posted a new concept video on April 20, and its CEO said Tuesday the company has the workforce and facilities to build the aircraft if selected.
  • Congress kept the effort going with about $1.69 billion after Pentagon leaders slowed it over factory capacity concerns, while the Navy’s Fiscal 2027 request is roughly $140 million.
  • A selection would launch engineering and manufacturing work on a sixth‑generation fighter to replace Super Hornets with greater range, low observability, and carrier suitability, including links to the MQ‑25 refueling drone.