US Air Force's 'Frankenjet' F-35A Becomes Fully Operational After Groundbreaking Repair

The innovative rebuild combined parts of two damaged F-35s, saving $63 million and setting a precedent for advanced military asset management.

The 'Frankenjet,' constructed from parts of two damaged F-35A fighter jets, is now fully operational and assigned to Hill Air Force Base.
The project merged the nose section of AF-27, damaged in a 2014 engine fire, with the rear section of AF-211, damaged by a 2020 landing gear failure.
Completed at a cost of $11.7 million, the initiative saved the US Air Force $63 million compared to procuring a new F-35A.
The rebuilt fighter underwent rigorous testing, demonstrating performance equivalent to a newly produced aircraft during its January 2025 test flight.
This first-of-its-kind repair effort highlights the potential for innovative maintenance practices to enhance fleet readiness and reduce costs.