Boeing secures Pentagon contract for F-47 fighter jet

On March 20, 2025, in Washington, President Donald Trump announced that the Pentagon would award a significant contract to Boeing for the construction of a next-generation fighter aircraft designated as the F-47. This announcement was made in the Oval Office, where Trump was joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and key leaders from the Air Force. The F-47 is set to succeed the F-22 Raptor, which has been in service for over a decade, as part of the Air Force's Next Generation Air Dominance program. Trump described the F-47 as an unprecedented warplane incorporating numerous advanced features aimed at outperforming adversaries, specifically mentioning its stealth capabilities and perceived superiority over existing fighter aircraft. The aircraft will serve as a cornerstone of future air superiority, enhancing the U.S. military’s capacity to penetrate the air defenses of potential foes, particularly China. Additionally, this contract signifies an important pivot for Boeing, which has faced challenges in other areas of their operations, including commercial airliner production and space ventures. The official contract, estimated at $20 billion, represents an initial investment in the fighter program, which critics argue may lead to overall costs rising into the hundreds of billions. The decision follows a competitive evaluation process aimed at providing the best value for the government, resulting in the selection of Boeing despite previous issues regarding delays and overruns associated with other military projects. Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin emphasized the significance of the F-47 in maintaining air dominance, indicating that greater production numbers compared to the F-22 were expected. In reflecting on the broader implications of the F-47 program, Assistant Defense Secretary Hegseth noted that this development sends a clear message to both allies and adversaries regarding the nation's commitment to military strength. The announcement aligns with ongoing concerns about maintaining technological superiority in the context of emerging threats. As discussions around military readiness and funding continue, there may also be scrutiny about the necessity of investing in a manned fighter when alternatives such as drones and AI-driven warfare are rapidly evolving.