🇩🇪 Germany’s First F-35A Enters Final Assembly Phase

(Image: Lockheed Martin)

Germany’s F-35 program continues to move forward, with the first F-35 Lightning II aircraft for the Luftwaffe reaching a key production milestone. The jet has now entered the final assembly phase at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth, Texas facility.

After progressing through the mile-long production line, the aircraft was lifted by an overhead crane into the final assembly station.

At this stage, the airframe has been structurally completed, with its wing, forward fuselage, center fuselage and aft fuselage joined.

These sections were aligned and integrated using an advanced electronic mate and alignment system, supported by laser-guided tooling—one of the defining features of F-35 production.

For the first time, the aircraft is in a “weight-on-wheels” configuration, marking a visible step toward completion.

During final assembly the engine will be installed, control surfaces will be added and final onboard systems will be integrated. 

Following final assembly, the aircraft will undergo painting and surface finishing and application of its low-observable (stealth) coating

These steps will prepare the jet for its first flight and official rollout, expected later this year.

This aircraft is one of the first eight German F-35As currently in production. Major assembly for these jets began in December 2024 at the Marietta, Georgia facility.

The German F-35 Program in Context

Germany finalized a contract in December 2022 to acquire 35 F-35A aircraft, in a deal valued at approximately €10 billion, including aircraft and engines, mission systems and weapons and support equipment and training and logistics

The F-35A will replace Germany’s aging Tornado fleet and ensure continuity of key operational roles within NATO, including the nuclear-sharing mission.

Key program elements:

• Main operating base: Büchel Air Base
• Initial pilot training: Ebbing Air National Guard Base
• First deliveries: expected between 2026 and 2027
• Full operational capability: around 2030
• Industrial Participation and Local Integration

Germany is also working to expand its role within the F-35 industrial ecosystem with development of local industrial capabilities, participation in component manufacturing and involvement of companies such as Rheinmetall in fuselage-related production.

Potential Expansion of the Fleet

Recent reports suggest that Berlin is considering expanding its F-35 fleet beyond the initial 35 aircraft.

Some sources indicate discussions that could lead to the acquisition of additional jets, potentially doubling the fleet size. However, no final decision has been confirmed.

The entry of Germany’s first F-35A into final assembly marks a significant step in the program’s timeline. Beyond its industrial importance, it signals steady progress toward the introduction of a new generation capability within the Luftwaffe.

As production advances and deliveries approach, attention will increasingly shift from manufacturing to operational integration.