Former President Donald Trump announced Friday that Boeing has secured a $20 billion contract to develop what he calls "the most lethal aircraft ever built" - the F-47 fighter jet. During a White House news conference, Trump revealed details about the next-generation military aircraft while making provocative statements about NATO and Russia.
The F-47, part of the Next Generation Air Dominance program, will serve as the U.S. Air Force's most sophisticated fighter jet to date. While specific design details remain classified, the aircraft is expected to feature stealth capabilities, advanced sensors, and cutting-edge engines.
"Nothing in the world comes close to it... it's something the likes of which nobody has seen before," Trump declared during the announcement.
The former president also made bold assertions about NATO, claiming the alliance's strength depends entirely on U.S. involvement. "NATO was gone until I came along," Trump stated. "President Putin will tell you that without the United States, he wouldn't be worried, but he is worried when the United States is involved."
Trump indicated that allied nations have expressed interest in purchasing the F-47, though he noted any exports would be "toned down" by 10% compared to U.S. versions. He justified this decision by adding, "someday, maybe they're not our allies."
The program has faced criticism over its substantial costs, particularly as the Pentagon continues to struggle with the full production of its current F-35 program, which carries a lifetime cost estimate exceeding $1.7 trillion.
During the same conference, Trump addressed potential military conflicts with China, stating that while war is undesirable, the U.S. is "well-equipped to handle it." He also clarified that his adviser Elon Musk would not receive briefings on potential military strategies involving China, citing Musk's business interests in the country as a potential security concern.
The Air Force's Chief of Staff, General David Allvin, supported the announcement, stating, "We're going to write the next generation of modern aerial warfare with this."