President Trump has granted Boeing a significant new contract as the aerospace company prepares to construct the air force’s upcoming fighter jet.
On March 21st, Trump revealed that Boeing secured a $20 billion deal to develop the Next Generation Air Dominance, or NGAD.
This multibillion-dollar manned aircraft will act as a central command for a future fleet of drones, designed to penetrate the air defenses of China and other potential adversaries.
This announcement comes at a time of growing concerns about the possibility of World War 3, with nations such as China, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea reportedly increasing their nuclear arsenals in recent times.
The contract award was announced by Trump at the White House, accompanied by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and air force leaders, who stated that the new fighter jet would be designated as the F-47.
General David Allvin, the chief of staff of the US Air Force, commented: “We’re going to write the next generation of modern aerial warfare with this.”
Meanwhile, Hegseth emphasized that the prospective fleet “sends a very clear, direct message to our allies that we’re not going anywhere, and to our enemies that we will be able to project power around the globe unimpeded for generations to come.”
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Though Trump and Hegseth are enthusiastic about the new aircraft, some critics have raised concerns regarding the cost and necessity of the program, especially as the Pentagon continues to face challenges in fully producing its current most advanced aircraft, the F-35. This jet is projected to cost taxpayers over $1.7 trillion throughout its operational life.
Currently, the F-35 is considered ‘the most advanced fighter jet in the world’.
According to its website, “The F-35 strengthens national security, enhances global partnerships and powers economic growth.”
It further states, “It is the most lethal, survivable and connected fighter aircraft in the world, giving pilots an advantage against any adversary and enabling them to execute their mission and come home safe.”
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The description adds: “As adversaries advance and legacy aircraft age, the F-35 is critical to maintaining air dominance for decades to come.”
The United States is among 20 nations operating F-35 jets. More than 1,000 of these aircraft have been delivered, and there are 48 bases located worldwide.
Lockheed Martin is the primary contractor responsible for the F-35 program.