On Friday, March 21, President Donald Trump unveiled the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation fighter jet, naming it the F-47—a nod to his status as the 47th president of the United States.
The announcement, made in the Oval Office alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, confirmed that Boeing would be responsible for constructing the cutting-edge aircraft.
What is the Boeing F-47 US Fighter Jet?
The F-47 is a sixth-generation fighter jet designed to replace the F-22 Raptor. Trump described it as “the most advanced, most capable, most lethal aircraft ever built.” While specific details remain classified for security reasons, the aircraft is expected to feature:
- Stealth technology: Making it nearly invisible on radar.
- Unmatched speed and agility: Designed to dominate aerial combat.
- Advanced weaponry: Equipped with next-generation capabilities.
- Long-range strike abilities: Extending the U.S. Air Force’s global reach.
The contract is a major win for Boeing, which has faced several challenges in recent years, including safety concerns with its commercial aircraft.
The F-47 project is expected to boost the company’s reputation and financial standing. The jet will be manufactured at Boeing’s facility in St. Louis.
How Much Will It Cost?
While Trump did not disclose exact figures, early reports suggest:
- Development costs exceeding $20 billion
- Total program cost likely in the hundreds of billions
The F-47 will replace the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, known for its stealth and air dominance. According to Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin, the F-47 will be more cost-effective and adaptable than its predecessor.
Lockheed Martin, Boeing’s biggest competitor, saw a drop in stock prices following the announcement. This comes after Tesla CEO Elon Musk criticized the F-35 program, calling the jet an “expensive & complex jack of all trades, master of none.”
Trump stated that an experimental version of the aircraft has been in testing for nearly five years. He expects the fleet to be operational before the end of his term.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the F-47 would:
- Reassure U.S. allies of American military strength.
- Deter enemies by projecting power globally.
- Maintain air superiority with advanced combat capabilities.
The F-47 announcement signals a new era for U.S. military aviation. As Boeing moves forward with production, all eyes will be on the development of what could become the most powerful fighter jet in history.
Stay tuned for more updates on the F-47 and its impact on global defense.