Defense

Boeing selected to develop U.S. Air Force’s next-generation air dominance fighter

The aerospace giant will design and build the NGAD platform, ushering in a new era of air dominance

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Artist rendering of the United States Air Force's Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter concept showcasing its advanced stealth design. (Photo: USAF)

The US Air Force has officially selected Boeing to design, build, and deliver its Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter aircraft, according to an announcement made by the aerospace company on March 21, 2025.

The NGAD platform will usher in a new generation of United States fighter jets, bringing significant advancements in range, survivability, lethality, and adaptability capabilities. This aircraft will serve as the central component in the NGAD Family of Systems.

An air dominance fighter is a special military aircraft intended to gain absolute dominance of disputed airspace through superior maneuverability, stealth, advanced sensors, and weapons systems. The fighter jets are designed to outmaneuver any aerial enemy while complementing wider military missions by making sure friendly forces have a chance to act without challenge from hostile air power.

“We recognize the importance of designing, building and delivering a 6th-generation fighter capability for the United States Air Force,” said Steve Parker, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

“In preparation for this mission, we made the most significant investment in the history of our defense business, and we are ready to provide the most advanced and innovative NGAD aircraft needed to support the mission.”

This selection builds upon Boeing’s extensive legacy in fighter aircraft development. For nearly a century, the company has produced some of the world’s most advanced combat aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang, F-4 Phantom, F-15 Eagle, F/A-18 Hornet, and EA-18G Growler.

The award positions Boeing to establish a new global standard for 6th generation fighter capability, which further cements the company’s role in the American defense industry.

Technical and programmatic details about the NGAD Platform remain classified under United States national security and export laws, according to Boeing.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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