On March 21, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump made a significant announcement regarding the future of military aviation in America: the U.S. Air Force has signed a contract with Boeing to develop the world's first sixth-generation fighter jet, designated as the F-47. During a press conference at the White House, where he was joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump expressed enthusiasm for this groundbreaking military advancement.
"I'm thrilled to announce that, at my direction, the United States Air Force is moving forward with the world's first sixth-generation fighter jet," Trump declared, emphasizing the performance capabilities of the F-47. According to him, the jet is set to surpass existing fighter aircraft in speed, mobility, and payload capacity.
Not only does the F-47 promise to integrate superior stealth features that would enable it to evade enemy radar systems, but it is also expected to significantly enhance the military's ability to penetrate the air defenses of potential adversaries, such as China. Trump stated, "I am confident it will overwhelm the capabilities of other countries. No country will be able to compete," showcasing his administration's commitment to advancing U.S. military technology.
Describing the F-47 as essential for national defense, he added that the aircraft's design aims to assure American dominance in the skies. Analysts believe the F-47 will serve as a critical component in future combat operations, likely partnering with swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles.
While Trump did not disclose the contract's total value, it is speculated to be worth tens of billions of dollars. After the announcement, Boeing's stock surged by 4%, benefiting from the newfound optimism that this contract brings. In contrast, Lockheed Martin, which has been a primary competitor in securing defense contracts, saw a drop in its stock prices, reflecting the fierce competition in the defense sector.
The selection of Boeing to build the F-47 comes after an extensive evaluation period, during which Boeing and Lockheed Martin have been vying for dominance over the lucrative next-generation fighter market for more than two years. Trump acknowledged the tough competition, stating, "We made a large order but cannot disclose the amount of the contract," further alluding to the contract's significance for Boeing’s reputation after facing challenges with its 737 MAX aircraft.
In addition to national defense implications, international interest in the F-47 is already evident. Trump mentioned that allied nations are looking to purchase this cutting-edge fighter jet, though it might come with reduced capabilities. He noted, with a hint of caution, that "allies may not always remain allies," stressing the importance of retaining an edge in military technology.
The military community anticipates that the F-47 will not only serve as a formidable weapon system but will also gradually replace the aging fleet of F-22 Raptors currently in service. Experts suggest that the F-47’s design will feature advanced engines and high-performance sensors, placing it ahead of its predecessors and ensuring it remains adaptable to emerging threats.
As developments in military aerospace unfold, the expectation is that the F-47 will be operational by the 2030s, marking an era of enhanced aerial warfare capability for the U.S. It is set to act not only as a manned aircraft but also as a command-and-control hub for a fleet of drones, further enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
This move signals a transformative phase for the U.S. military, as Trump reiterated, "The F-47 will ensure U.S. dominance in the sky," encapsulating the overarching goal of enhancing national security and military readiness in an increasingly complex global arena.