The Pentagon is set to select a defense contractor this week for the U.S. Navy’s next-generation fighter, the F/A-XX, aimed at enhancing naval aviation capabilities against growing threats, particularly from China. Boeing and Northrop Grumman are the final contenders for this multibillion-dollar program, which seeks to replace the aging F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet. Delays have arisen due to funding disputes and concerns over contractor capacities, yet Congress has allocated significant resources to expedite its development. The F/A-XX will feature advanced stealth, extended range, and compatibility with uncrewed aircraft, underscoring its critical role in preserving U.S. naval power well into the 2030s and beyond.