Balance of Power

Trump Awards Boeing Next-Generation Fighter Jet Contract

Mar 21, 2025

Boeing's triumph in securing the multibillion-dollar contract for the next-generation F-47 stealth fighter jet marks a pivotal moment in U.S. military innovation. Discussions center on the political dynamics surrounding this victory, particularly its implications for Lockheed Martin and the broader defense landscape. The episode also analyzes the influence of tech leaders like Elon Musk on military contracts and voter sentiment in key states. Furthermore, the conversation explores the intersection of defense spending and market strategies, highlighting the evolving nature of military procurement.

39:19

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Quick takeaways

Boeing's victory in winning the next-generation fighter jet contract emphasizes its pivotal role in enhancing U.S. military air dominance amidst global threats.

Elon Musk's engagement with U.S. defense strategies raises concerns about the intertwining of private corporate influence and national security oversight.

Deep dives

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Intro

2min

Military Contracts and Brand Backlash

8min

Navigating Consumer Choices Amid Political Backlash

5min

Boeing's F-47 Contract and Political Dynamics

11min

Wisconsin Election Strategies and Defense Contracts

4min

Trump, Musk, and Military Innovation

12min

Shifting Defense Investments and the Future of Military Procurement

5min

Watch Joe and Kailey LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF.

Boeing Co. won a contract to design and build the US’s next-generation stealth fighter jet, beating out rival Lockheed Martin Corp. for the multibillion dollar program aimed at preparing the military for possible conflict with China.

The new sixth-generation fighter jet, whose overall cost is expected to run in the hundreds of billions of dollars, “will ensure that the USA continues to dominate the skies,” President Donald Trump said in an unveiling at the White House. Trump, the 47th president, said with a smile that it will be dubbed the F-47.

The award caps more than two years of competition between the defense giants for the full-scale development phase of the Next Generation Air Dominance manned fighter, or NGAD. The jet, which will replace the F-22 Raptor, is envisioned to operate in tandem with drones, which are being developed in a separate program.

Bloomberg Washington Correspondents Joe Mathieu and Kailey Leinz deliver insight and analysis on the latest headlines from the White House and Capitol Hill, including conversations with influential lawmakers and key figures in politics and policy. On this edition, Joe and Julie Fine speak with: