Overview
- Lockheed reported 191 F-35 deliveries in 2025, surpassing previous highs after clearing stored aircraft accumulated during the TR-3 acceptance hold.
- Jets with the TR-3 upgrade that resumed delivery in July 2024 remain restricted to training use pending a combat-capability decision by the F-35 Joint Program Office.
- The JPO and Lockheed finalized Lots 18–19 for up to 296 aircraft valued at about $24 billion, alongside a new enterprise sustainment contract.
- Lockheed cites an annual production capacity of 156 aircraft, while the global fleet approached 1,300 jets and surpassed one million flight hours with cited operational engagements.
- European programs advanced as Italy and Denmark increased planned buys, Finland rolled out its first F-35A, Belgium received its first in-country jet, and Norway completed deliveries, even as auditors continue to flag sustainment costs and readiness shortfalls.