US Senate Approves F/A-XX Fighter Program Amid Rising Tensions

The United States Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to the long-delayed F/A-XX next-generation carrier fighter, a critical step aimed at bolstering US naval air power in the face of increasing challenges from China. On March 15, 2024, the Senate Committee on Appropriations approved funding measures as part of the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process, ensuring the program’s continuity and pushing for accelerated development.

The legislation mandates that the Department of Defense (DoD) allocate funds for research, development, testing, and evaluation of the F/A-XX, with a clear objective of achieving an expedited initial operational capability. This move reflects a sense of urgency among lawmakers, who have expressed frustration over the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the future of the US Navy’s air wing.

By incorporating language that prevents the use of fiscal year 2026 funds to pause or terminate the F/A-XX program, Congress is taking a more active role in overseeing the transition from the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the next-generation fighter. This is particularly significant given the rising capabilities of both Chinese and Russian air defenses, which threaten the historical dominance of US carrier air power.

The renewed focus on the F/A-XX comes at a time when US lawmakers are increasingly concerned that delays in its development could undermine the long-term effectiveness of US aircraft carriers in high-stakes conflicts.

F/A-XX’s Tactical Advantages and Strategic Necessity

According to a report by Jon Harper in April 2025, the F/A-XX is set to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the US Navy’s carrier-based fighters. It is designed to exceed the range, survivability, and artificial intelligence-enabled operations of current aircraft. The F/A-XX is expected to possess over 125% of the range of existing carrier aircraft, crucial for operations across the vast Pacific theater. The current F/A-18E/F Super Hornet has a maximum range of approximately 2,360 kilometers, suggesting that the F/A-XX will achieve a range of at least 2,945 kilometers without refueling.

US Navy officials have noted that with support from organic tankers, the operational reach of the F/A-XX could be nearly limitless. Enhanced stealth features and the ability to penetrate advanced threat environments will also allow for better integration with unmanned systems, increasing overall effectiveness in contested scenarios.

In addition to its technical enhancements, the F/A-XX is positioned as the US Navy’s primary counter to China’s growing fleet of advanced fighters, including the J-20 and the emerging J-35. The size and proximity of these Chinese forces present a formidable challenge, as highlighted by Kris Osborne in an October 2025 article for Warrior Maven.

The Broader Context of US Military Strategy

The implications of the F/A-XX extend beyond immediate air combat capabilities. According to a report by Bryan Clark and Timothy Walton from the Hudson Institute, the F/A-XX will enable US carriers to function as mobile command-and-strike hubs rather than simply targets for enemy missiles. The aircraft’s extended range allows carriers to maintain a safer distance from mainland China while still projecting air power effectively.

The integration of unmanned systems, such as MQ-25 tankers and ISR drones, further enhances this operational flexibility. These technologies enable real-time intelligence and reconnaissance, making it easier to coordinate strikes without exposing carriers to the dense defenses of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Nevertheless, the balance of air power in the Pacific has become increasingly contested. A report by Douglas Barrie and Ben Thornley for the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) indicates that the PLA Air Force has made significant strides, narrowing the gap in capabilities with modern fighters and long-range missiles. This shift raises concerns about the US’s ability to maintain air superiority, particularly in a potential conflict over Taiwan.

As the F/A-XX program progresses, the United States faces a multifaceted challenge. The future of naval air power will depend not only on technological advancements but also on operational strategies, training, and joint exercises that integrate various military assets.

In summary, the F/A-XX represents more than just a new fighter aircraft; it is a cornerstone of the US Navy’s strategy to adapt to an evolving geopolitical landscape. While it may not restore dominance outright, it aims to delay the erosion of US carrier air power, providing a critical buffer in a theater defined by distance, mass, and endurance.