Currently, two aircraft proposed by American industry are undergoing testing as part of the F/A-XX competition. In early March 2025, it was confirmed that Lockheed Martin is no longer participating in the programme.
According to Breaking Defense, Lockheed Martin submitted a proposal, but it did not meet the Navy’s requirements. With Lockheed Martin out, the remaining contenders for the F/A-XX programme are Northrop Grumman and Boeing.
The F/A-XX is being developed to replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, and it will operate alongside the F-35C Lightning II. This programme is separate from the US Air Force’s NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) initiative.
The difference between the two projects reflects the distinct operational needs of each service. The Navy seeks a cost-effective, flexible, multirole aircraft, while the Air Force prioritises air superiority.
The Navy requires the F/A-XX to be faster, have greater range, carry a heavier weapons payload than the F/A-18 Super Hornet, and be capable of controlling up to four UAVs. It must also be able to refuel from unmanned MQ-25 tankers or manage up to four of them in a refuelling role.
