Lockheed Martin delivered a record 191 F-35 Lightning II aircraft in 2025, surpassing the previous annual high of 142 jets and marking a significant milestone for the programme. The achievement reflects the scale and maturity of the F-35, with annual production now running at a pace five times faster than any other allied fighter currently in production.

 

The delivery milestone follows the programme’s achievement of one million flight hours earlier in the year. During 2025, the F-35 team completed delivery of Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3), the most advanced software configuration to date, while sustaining a global fleet approaching 1,300 aircraft and continuing to grow.

 

Operationally, the F-35 demonstrated its performance in real-world combat environments throughout the year. Aircraft played a key role in suppressing Iran’s air defences during Operation Midnight Hammer, recorded nearly 5,000 mishap-free flight hours during a US Marine Corps F-35B deployment, and eliminated Russian drones over Poland. The latter marked the first time NATO F-35s have engaged threats within allied airspace.

 

Global demand for the aircraft continued to expand, with Italy and Denmark increasing their programmes of record by 25 and 16 aircraft respectively. Several international partners also reached key milestones, including the rollout of Finland’s first F-35, the arrival of Belgium’s first in-country aircraft, and the completion of Norway’s fleet deliveries.

 

In September, the F-35 Joint Program Office and Lockheed Martin finalised Lots 18 and 19, covering the production and delivery of up to 296 aircraft valued at US$24 billion. This agreement represents the largest production contracts in the programme’s history. The partners also concluded an Air Vehicle Sustainment Contract to support annualised sustainment activities across the F-35 enterprise from 2025 onwards.

 

Commenting on the year’s achievements, Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 Lightning II Program, said the enterprise had delivered on its production commitments while continuing to strengthen global partnerships and operational performance.

 

With 12 nations operating the F-35 and nearly 1,300 aircraft in service worldwide, the programme continues to focus on sustaining and advancing the fleet to ensure its long-term contribution to global security.