News
Lockheed Martin Finalizes Contract to Add Nearly 300 F-35s to Global Fleet
September 29, 2025
FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 29, 2025 – Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) have reached final agreement on lots 18-19 for the production and delivery of up to 296 F-35s, adding to the global fleet of the world’s most advanced fighter jet in production today.
The air vehicle production contract adds jets for the U.S. services, international partners and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers. Deliveries on these lots begin in 2026.
“The F-35 Lot 18-19 contract represents continued confidence in the most affordable and capable fighter aircraft in production today,” said Chauncey McIntosh, vice president and general manager of the F-35 Lightning II program at Lockheed Martin. “We are proud to support our customers and further solidify the F-35’s role in enabling peace through strength.”
The increase in price per jet in Lot 18-19 from previous years was less than the rate of inflation.
The F-35 is combat proven. With more than 1 million hours flown, 12 nations operating across the global fleet—with more nations to come—and more than 1,230 aircraft in service, the F-35 is an indispensable contributor to global security.
