Lockheed Martin rolls out Germany's first F-35A jet

On 18 September 2026, Lockheed Martin presented Germany's first F-35A Lightning II fighter jet to the German government during a rollout ceremony at its production facility in Fort Worth, Texas. Senior military and government officials from both nations attended the event.

Germany's program of record includes 35 F-35A aircraft. The first eight will head this fall to Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas for pilot training. Initial deliveries directly to Germany will follow in late 2027, with the German Air Force aiming for full operational capability by 2029.

German Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius described the jet as a critical capability for both Germany and NATO, highlighting its stealth features, sensor integration, and operational data processing. OJ Sanchez, president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, said the milestone builds on more than 50 years of partnership while strengthening European security.

The F-35 has been selected by 20 nations, including 13 in Europe. More than 1,355 F-35 aircraft are currently operational globally across 42 bases, having accumulated over one million total flight hours. Lockheed Martin noted it continues to seek broader industrial ties in Germany to support 5th Generation fighter manufacturing, sustainment, and research.