Over the past few years, the project to develop a new sixth-generation fighter to replace the U.S. Air Force’s (USAF) F-22 Raptor has been plagued by ups and downs. Known as NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance), it has been subject to public scrutiny due to its potential and high investment cost, as well as the focus of repeated re-evaluations — including being put on hold last year until the inauguration of a new administration. However, the current government of the United States, led by President Donald J. Trump, appears determined to take the next major step in the project by selecting the company that will carry out the development and production of the USAF’s new combat aircraft.
Currently, and over the past few years, various companies have been working on conceptual designs for the future aircraft in line with the requirements outlined by the Pentagon and the U.S. Air Force. The process, which included companies such as Northrop Grumman — which withdrew from the competition to focus on its B-21 Raider bombers — has now narrowed down to two main contenders, namely: Lockheed Martin and Boeing, along with their respective partner companies.
According to international news agencies, officials have confirmed that President Trump will hold a press conference from the Oval Office at the White House, joined by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and USAF Chief of Staff General David Allvin. The announcement is expected to reveal the selection of the company tasked with developing and manufacturing the NGAD.
Although no further details or hints have been provided, both companies competing for the contract are among the most prominent suppliers of military equipment to the U.S. Armed Forces, with long and successful track records. In the case of Lockheed Martin, the firm is currently the primary manufacturer of the fifth-generation F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II fighters, both of which are in service with the U.S. Air Force. However, despite this background, the company reportedly suffered a major setback when it was revealed that it may have been sidelined from the F/A-XX project, through which the U.S. Navy also aims to develop its own sixth-generation fighter.
Boeing, on the other hand, is currently the manufacturer of the USAF’s new F-15EX Eagle II fighter and is also one of the main suppliers of transport and aerial refueling aircraft for the service. Additionally, the company is involved in the modernization of airborne early warning and control aircraft, based on the 737 platform, known as the E-7 Wedgetail, which is intended to replace the aging E-3 Sentry fleet.
*Concept images used for illustrative purposes only.
