Overview

• The aircraft arrived July 9 and, per confirmations on Aug. 21 from the Air Force and Lockheed Martin, is one of three F-35As now delivered to the unit.
• The Florida Air National Guard expects roughly 20 F-35s to replace its retired F-15C/D fleet and will fly a mix of its own and loaned jets during the conversion.
• Jacksonville becomes the fourth Air National Guard wing to operate the F-35A, following units in Vermont, Wisconsin, and Alabama.
• Base preparations included a new simulator complex, upgraded low‑observable maintenance ventilation, a climate‑controlled weapons‑load facility, and widened taxiways at Jacksonville International Airport.
• Program context shows a long‑term Air Force objective of 1,763 F-35As with procurement slowing in FY26 to prioritize spares and availability as Lockheed targets 170–190 total F‑35 deliveries in 2025.