The F/A-XX will replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler starting in the 2030s as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance program. By winning both this and the Air Force's F-47 contract in March 2025, Boeing is now the only U.S. manufacturer of sixth-generation fighters, excluding Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman from the category. Pentagon officials have previously voiced concerns over Boeing's ability to manage multiple fighters simultaneously, citing safety failures with the 737 MAX and delays with the KC-46 tanker and T-7 trainer.
