Boeing shares surged in premarket trading Wednesday following a contract win with the U.S. Pentagon and Navy to develop the next generation of fighter jets.
The contract, valued at over $20 billion, will fund the development of the Sixth-Generation F/A-XX strike fighter over the long term. The F/A-XX aims to replace the existing F/A-18 Super Hornet fleet.
Steve Parker, President and CEO, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, told investors, “It’s an honor to be selected to produce the Navy’s first sixth–generation platform. Backed by decades of work, bolstered by game-changing innovations and solidified by the investments we’ve made in new facilities uniquely suited to build multiple products with next generation capabilities, our dedicated and talented team is ready to execute this critical program.”
“Delivering two advanced fighters in parallel was always our plan, and we invested accordingly. We are ready and able to build multiple concurrent future combat aircraft franchise programs,” said Parker.
The company also confirmed ongoing construction at Boeing’s secure manufacturing facility, the largest in the U.S. Located in St. Louis, this facility will be integrated into the world’s most advanced, fully digital aerospace design and manufacturing system.
“Investment in facilities is just one part of the story; we’re also investing in technology and people so that we can deliver for our customers,” Parker added.
Boeing said in a separate statement that the fighter will advance open mission systems architecture, advanced mission systems, and operational reach and capacity.
The contract is Boeing’s second selection for 6th-generation fighter work following the award of the U.S. Air Force’s F-47 program in 2025.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
