Trump to announce Pentagon’s decision on $20B next-gen fighter jet contract
F-22A Raptor Demonstration Team aircraft maintainers prepare to launch out Maj. Paul "Max" Moga, the first F-22A Raptor demonstration team pilot, July 13. (Photo via U.S. Air Force)
President Donald Trump will announce the Pentagon’s decision on the $20 billion Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter jet contract as soon as Friday.
The program aims to replace the F-22 Raptor with a new, crewed aircraft designed to operate alongside drones. Despite budget challenges and shifting priorities, the announcement is set to move forward.
Lockheed Martin and Boeing are competing for the NGAD contract, which could lead to billions of dollars in orders over the next few decades. A win for Lockheed would strengthen its position in high-end defense contracts, while a Boeing victory would provide a major recovery boost for the company.
The announcement is scheduled for 11 a.m. (3 p.m. GMT) on Friday in the Oval Office.
The NGAD program is essential for countering threats from China and Russia. The decision will have significant implications for U.S. military strategy and defense industry dynamics in the future.
