#United States #Fort Worth #Lockheed Martin #F-35 Lightning II #military aircraft

F-35 Lightning II Achieves Record Deliveries in 2025

In a banner year for the F-35 Lightning II program, Lockheed Martin has shattered previous delivery records, delivering an impressive 191 jets in 2025. This milestone not only exceeds the last record of 142 aircraft but also highlights the enhanced efficiency and maturity of the production pipeline, which is now moving at a pace five times faster than any other allied fighter jet currently in production.

Production Success and Technological Advances

The year marked significant advancements for the F-35 program, including the completion of over one million flight hours and the introduction of the most advanced software release to date. The completion of TR-3 represents a leap forward in the program's ongoing evolution. The team also maintained a global fleet of nearly 1,300 aircraft, showcasing the program's robustness.

Real-world combat performance has added to the F-35's credibility, with notable successes. During Operation Midnight Hammer, F-35s played a critical role in neutralizing Iran's air defenses. Additionally, throughout a deployment of U.S. Marine Corps F-35Bs, the aircraft recorded nearly 5,000 mishap-free flight hours, further emphasizing their reliability. The F-35s have also proven their capability in NATO operations, successfully engaging Russian drones over Poland, marking a significant moment in allied airspace security.

Growing Global Demand

The global appetite for the F-35 remains strong, as several allied nations exhibit renewed confidence in the aircraft by expanding their fleets. Notably, Italy and Denmark have augmented their records by adding 25 and 16 jets respectively. Several countries also celebrated major program milestones: Finland proudly rolled out its first F-35, while Belgium welcomed its initial aircraft on home soil, and Norway completed its fleet delivery.

Further solidifying its success, the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) and Lockheed Martin finalised production contracts for Lots 18-19, covering the production of up to 296 jets worth approximately $24 billion. This marks the largest production contracts in the program's history, alongside a significant sustainment contract for annualized activities across the entire F-35 enterprise.

Industry Leaders Respond

Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin, expressed pride in the team's commitment to production excellence and the strengthening of international partnerships in 2025. He affirmed the F-35's critical role in safeguarding the interests of the U.S. and its allies, emphasizing a dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology into the aircraft to counter evolving threats.

With 12 nations actively operating the F-35, nearly 1,300 aircraft are supporting global security with unmatched reliability and lethality. Lockheed Martin remains steadfast in its mission to keep this fleet at the forefront of aviation technology, working alongside allied nations to enhance their defense capabilities and ensure the F-35's long-term relevance in global security discussions.

Conclusion

As the F-35 Lightning II program continues to progress, its record delivery figures and operational success speak volumes about its growing prominence in military aviation. The reported achievements in 2025 emphasize not just a successful year, but a robust future for the program. The F-35 remains an essential instrument in modern warfare, uniting nations under a shared banner of security and technological advancement. For further information, the program encourages interested parties to visit F35.com.