First F-35A for Germany enters final production

The first of 35 F-35As for Germany begins its journey on the Lockheed Martin final assembly line in Fort Worth, Texas. (Lockheed Martin)

Final assembly of the first F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) for Germany has begun at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth production facility in Texas.

Aircraft MG-01 has entered final assembly with ‘weight on wheels' for the first time since its build was launched December 2024.

“The airframe entered final assembly with its weight on wheels for the first time and its four major components – the wing and the forward, centre and aft fuselage – freshly mated. These pieces were joined together at an electronic mate and alignment system using advanced laser-guided fixtures. In final assembly, the engine will be installed, and control surfaces and final systems will also be added,” Lockheed Martin said.

As noted in the announcement, after major assembly the aircraft will receive its paint and final finishes, including its stealth coating. First flight and official rollout are scheduled for later in 2026, before initially being delivered with seven other Luftwaffe aircraft to Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas, for pilot training.

The first F-35As will arrive at Büchel Air Base in Germany in the third quarter of 2027, with deliveries running through to 2029. Initial operating capability is scheduled for 2029, with full operating capability following in 2030.

Since the initial order for 35 aircraft was placed in December 2022, there have been repeated reports quoting senior Luftwaffe leaders that additional F-35A aircraft will be acquired. However, the Federal Ministry of Defence (Bundesministerium der Verteidigung: BMVg) has consistently denied this.

Speaking to Janes