US Navy F/A-XX 6th-gen fighter final order set for August

The US Navy's long-delayed F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter program is reportedly moving forward, with a final contractor selection and official order expected in August 2026. The program has faced defunding attempts within the Department of Defense during the Trump administration but is seen as the Navy's critical replacement for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The remaining contenders are Boeing, proposing a naval variant of the USAF's F-X fighter, and Northrop Grumman, with a dedicated naval design inspired by the YF-23. Lockheed Martin was dropped from the competition in March 2025, with the Navy citing its existing involvement through the F-35 program.