Boeing has further solidified its role in reinforcing U.S. military capabilities by securing several significant contracts for the maintenance and production of the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet and E/A-18G Growler aircraft.
These recent contracts, valued at over a billion dollars, come as a boost to the company amid a competitive defense market and increased global military tensions.
In a recent agreement with the Naval Supply Systems Command Weapon Systems Support in Philadelphia, PA, Boeing clinched a contract to procure radomes for F/A-18 E/F aircraft that are used by the U.S. Navy and the government of Kuwait.
The $27 million contract is slated for completion by April 2026, with operations taking place in St. Louis, MO. This procurement is part of a broader effort to support the U.S. Navy’s aerial warfare capabilities.
In another notable deal, the aerospace giant secured a $43.8 million contract to supply 72 processors for the Distributed Targeting Processor-Network System in the F/A-18 E/F and E/A-18G aircraft.
The work on this contract is expected to be completed by December 2025, further emphasizing Boeing’s commitment to enhancing the combat readiness of U.S. naval aviation forces.
The importance of the F/A-18 aircraft series to the U.S. military’s strategy cannot be overstated. The Boeing F/A-18 Block III Super Hornet and its variant EA-18G are cornerstones of the Navy’s carrier-based strike capabilities.
Their demand is underscored by a $1.3 billion contract for Boeing to produce 17 new F/A-18 multi-role strike fighter jets, alongside a technical data package designed to support fleet sustainment efforts.
Looking at the broader picture, the global military aviation market is on an upward trajectory, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% between 2023-2028 according to a Mordor Intelligence report.
This growth is primarily due to increasing defense spending and escalating global threats that have compelled countries to modernize their defense arsenals.
Boeing is not alone in its endeavors to expand military aircraft operations. Other U.S.-based combat jet manufacturers such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Textron are also expected to benefit from this market growth. Each company brings unique offerings to the table, from Northrop Grumman’s long history in combat aircraft development to Lockheed Martin’s famous F-35 and F-22 Raptor jets and Textron’s versatile training and attack aircraft like the T-6 trainer and the AT-6 light attack military aircraft.
Despite a past-year share price decline of 41.3%, Boeing remains a leader in the aerospace and defense industry, standing out for its diversified programs and solid backlog of orders. This resilience is reflected in its steady stream of contracts and its prominent position as a top U.S. exporter in the combat aircraft market.
As Boeing continues to fulfill its contractual obligations and contribute to U.S. military readiness, it serves as a reminder of the aerospace industry’s critical role in national defense and global stability. The recent contract wins and ongoing support for the F/A-18 E/F and E/A-18G jets are just a few examples of how the company maintains its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and security for the U.S. and its allies.