The United States has long maintained the most advanced and well-funded military in the world, with its airpower being a significant factor in global dominance. Leading the charge are highly sophisticated military aircraft programs, each designed to meet unique defense objectives. These programs, however, come with eye-watering price tags due to the combination of cutting-edge technology, research, and operational capabilities. Here’s a look at the five most expensive US military aircraft programs in 2025.
F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter Program
Estimated Total Cost: $1.7 Trillion
The F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin, stands as the most expensive military program in US history. Spanning multiple variants (F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C) to serve the Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy, this fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter boasts advanced avionics, supersonic capabilities, and unparalleled situational awareness.
As of 2025, the program’s lifecycle cost has surpassed $1.7 trillion, which includes development, procurement, and sustainment costs over 60 years. Each unit costs approximately $80–$100 million, depending on the variant, with the high price justified by its stealth technology, advanced sensors, and the ability to perform air-to-air and air-to-ground combat missions.
| Aircraft Program | Purpose | Total Cost (2025) | Unit Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-35 Lightning II | Multirole stealth fighter for air superiority, ground attack, and intelligence missions. | $1.7 Trillion | $80–$100 Million |
| B-21 Raider | Long-range stealth bomber for nuclear and conventional payload delivery in contested airspaces. | $203 Billion | $700 Million |
| KC-46 Pegasus | Aerial refueling tanker to extend the range of aircraft during operations. | $44 Billion | $150 Million |
| F/A-XX NGAD | Sixth-generation stealth fighter designed for air dominance and advanced combat capabilities. | $200 Billion+ | $300 Million+ |
| V-22 Osprey | Tiltrotor aircraft for troop transport, medevac, and special operations in challenging terrains. | $56 Billion | $90 Million |
B-21 Raider Long-Range Strike Bomber
Estimated Total Cost: $203 Billion
The B-21 Raider, developed by Northrop Grumman, is the next-generation stealth bomber designed to replace the aging B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit fleets. This long-range bomber is intended to penetrate enemy air defenses and deliver both conventional and nuclear payloads.
With an estimated cost of $203 billion for the program, the B-21 is a key component of the Air Force’s nuclear modernization strategy. Each unit is expected to cost approximately $700 million, making it one of the priciest bombers ever built. Despite the high costs, the B-21 is expected to revolutionize strategic bombing capabilities with its enhanced stealth, autonomy, and versatility.
KC-46 Pegasus Aerial Refueling Tanker
Estimated Total Cost: $44 Billion
The KC-46 Pegasus, developed by Boeing, is the latest aerial refueling tanker designed to replace the aging fleet of KC-135 Stratotankers. This aircraft plays a crucial role in extending the range and endurance of US fighter jets and bombers by refueling them mid-air.
As of 2025, the program is projected to cost around $44 billion. Each KC-46 unit is priced at approximately $150 million. Although the program has faced technical challenges, including issues with its Remote Vision System (RVS), the KC-46 remains a vital asset for maintaining US global air dominance.
F/A-XX Next-Generation Air Dominance Fighter (NGAD)
Estimated Total Cost: Over $200 Billion
The F/A-XX NGAD program is the US Navy’s ambitious effort to develop a sixth-generation fighter to replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet by the 2030s. Designed to dominate in heavily contested environments, the NGAD will feature advanced stealth, hypersonic capabilities, and the ability to control drone swarms.
While exact costs remain classified, estimates put the total program budget at over $200 billion. Each NGAD aircraft is expected to cost upwards of $300 million due to its advanced technologies, including AI integration, enhanced sensors, and next-gen weapon systems.
V-22 Osprey Tiltrotor Aircraft
Estimated Total Cost: $56 Billion
The V-22 Osprey, developed by Bell Helicopter and Boeing, is a versatile tiltrotor aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). This unique design combines the speed of a fixed-wing aircraft with the maneuverability of a helicopter, making it an essential platform for troop transport, medical evacuation, and special operations missions.
The program’s total cost as of 2025 is estimated at $56 billion, with each unit priced at approximately $90 million. While the Osprey has faced criticism for its high operational and maintenance costs, its ability to operate in challenging environments has made it a critical asset for the US military.
Conclusion
The cost of developing and maintaining these aircraft programs underscores the immense investment required to sustain US military supremacy. While these price tags may appear staggering, each program serves a critical role in ensuring national security, advancing aerospace technology, and maintaining global military influence. As threats evolve, these cutting-edge aircraft will continue to shape the future of modern warfare, justifying their place as some of the most expensive assets in the US arsenal.