First F-35A for Germany Enters Production
FORT WORTH, Texas – Production of the first F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter for the german Luftwaffe has officially begun, marking a key milestone in Berlin’s effort to modernize its air force and maintain its nuclear deterrence capabilities.German State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Defense (Bundesministerium der Verteidigung: BMVg) Nils Hilmer signed the bulkhead of F-35A MG-01 at lockheed Martin’s facility in fort Worth, Texas, initiating the manufacturing process for the initial batch of 35 aircraft.
The commencement of production solidifies Germany’s commitment to replacing its aging Tornado fleet, which currently fulfills a critical role in NATO’s shared nuclear deterrence mission. The F-35A will also expand the Luftwaffe’s conventional air-to-surface and air-to-air capabilities. This acquisition represents a important investment in Germany’s national security and its continued participation in collective defense efforts within the alliance.
Germany ordered the 35 F-35A aircraft in December 2022, in a contract valued at EUR10 billion (USD11.5 billion) that includes associated weapons and equipment. According to the bundeswehr,the signing ceremony followed a tradition of visiting officials marking the start of production by signing the aircraft’s bulkhead.
Pilot and maintainer training is slated to begin in 2026 at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in the United States. Deliveries of the F-35As to Büchel Air Base in Germany are expected to commence in the third quarter of 2027, continuing through 2029. The Luftwaffe anticipates achieving initial operating capability with the F-35A in 2029, followed by full operating capability in 2030.
Despite reports from Luftwaffe leaders suggesting potential future acquisitions beyond the initial 35 aircraft, the BMVg has consistently refuted these claims.
