Trump Picks Boeing for Costly Fighter Jet Project Due in 2030s

President Donald Trump has tapped Boeing to build what could be the priciest fighter jet ever. The sixth-generation planes set for the 2030s will pair with semiautonomous drones. This move aims to keep U.S. air power ahead of rivals like China.

Boeing won the contract over Lockheed Martin in a tight race that stirred debate. The jets dubbed F-47 after Trump promise stealth and speed beyond current models. Costs could top 20 billion dollars raising eyebrows among budget hawks.

Trump touted the planes as a leap forward at a White House event with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. He claimed they would outmatch anything flown by foes or allies. Critics warn the price tag may balloon as drones reshape air combat.

The F-47 will work with unmanned craft built by firms like General Atomics. This team-up aims to boost flexibility in future wars per Pentagon plans. Some experts argue drones alone could soon outpace manned jets in value and power.

Elon Musk of DOGE has pushed for cheaper drone fleets over costly piloted planes. He called manned fighters outdated in posts on X last year. His stance clashes with Trumps vision fueling tension in the administrations defense circle.

Boeing needs this win after setbacks with its 737 MAX and Air Force One delays. The deal secures jobs in Missouri and lifts its stock amid fierce competition. Rivals like China’s J-20 loom large driving urgency for the project.

Lawmakers worry the F-47s costs could drain funds from other military needs. Past programs like the F-35 soared past 1 trillion dollars over decades. Trump insists private sector grit will keep this effort lean and on track.

The jets are years from battle but signal Trumps focus on raw military might. Allies and enemies alike will watch their rollout closely. For now Boeing celebrates a lifeline as skeptics question the price of air supremacy.