The United States Air Force’s choice of Boeing to build its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter—now officially designated the F-47—is a milestone in the future of American air power. This isn’t another plane program; it’s a step into a new era, one designed to be the standard for how the United States dominates the skies for generations to come. The decision has implications far larger than the flight line, influencing military tactics, industrial might, and the future of sophisticated aviation.
The Boeing selection over Lockheed Martin followed a highly secretive evaluation process. The Air Force stated that the award was for “best overall value” and not exclusively based on cost or history of past performance. The choice was made by acting senior acquisition executive Darlene J. Costello, and there were precautions to prevent outside pressures.
While both companies have struggled with past programs, Boeing’s bid met the Air Force’s stringent requirements in ways that tipped the scales of advantage toward the company. The F-47 is the ultimate synergy of capability, versatility, and long-term potential, say leaders of the service.
How does the F-47 excel? As a sixth-generation fighter, it’s intended to replace the F-22 Raptor—once the ultimate air superiority fighter. The F-47 is a step-changer in stealth, range, sensors, and flexibility. Early characterizations by senior leaders call it the most technologically advanced aircraft ever designed, with low observability, unmatched agility, and strong integrated systems.
Despite all but the fewest particulars still being classified, it’s expected to excel in the most demanding operating environments, taking advantage of leading-edge communications, electronic warfare, and the ability to integrate with autonomous platforms seamlessly.
It began years ago with test X-planes by DARPA. Boeing and Lockheed both flew early on with innovative prototypes in 2019 and 2022, racking up hundreds of flight hours to show off new technology. General David Allvin explained that test planes have been quietly setting the stage for the F-47, pushing the limits of aerospace engineering and proving up big concepts. This years-long research program, begun under DARPA’s Strategic Technology Office Air Dominance Initiative, has now matured into a production-capable program.
But the F-47 is just one airplane—it’s the hub of a larger “family of systems” concept. That consists of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), a next-generation autonomous drone designed to fly in conjunction with manned fighters. Companies like Anduril and General Atomics are already moving to detailed design and flight test on the first batch of such drones, which will support missions from strike missions to reconnaissance. The idea is a highly networked force where manned and unmanned systems work together, bringing in an element of flexibility and firepower many times more than what could be offered by any single airplane.
The financial stake is vast, specifically for the St. Louis region and Boeing, with which production of the F-47 will be shared. The program is a lifeline for Boeing, which has lost money on some other defense contracts, as well as an opportunity to show off its engineering capabilities. Thousands of highly skilled jobs will be maintained, along with a large supply chain spread throughout several communities. Local politicians describe the win as a once-in-a-generation boost, one that will be felt throughout the economy for generations.
Strategically, the F-47 is designed to keep the U.S. at the forefront of air superiority. Its stealth, range, advanced sensors, and integration with autonomous wingmen aim to give pilots a decisive advantage in the most demanding missions. Test aircraft have already been in the air for several years, and the Air Force intends to field operational versions within the next decade—a pace that underscores the urgency behind the program.
Nevertheless, there are challenges. Boeing has to overcome its recent record of production setbacks and quality problems. The Air Force has to weigh the expense of producing hundreds of F-47s against other needs, such as the B-21 bomber and CCA drones. The cost-plus incentive contract is designed to control risks, but the nature and estimated cost are likely to be far more than the F-35s, so intense oversight will be necessary.
The F-47 program is more than a new fighter plane—it’s a statement of principle. It’s about proving that America can still design, build, and fly the world’s most advanced aircraft, even in an era of rapid technological change. In the years ahead, success or failure will be measured not just in terms of specs, but in its ability to define the future of air power.