The US military could receive at least 850 F-35 fighter jets over the next decade under a preliminary agreement between the Pentagon and Lockheed Martin. The two sides have reached a framework deal, but the final contract will require congressional approval of both its terms and the associated spending.
The proposed arrangement extends beyond the purchase of new aircraft. It also covers essential spare parts, upgrade kits and maintenance for the existing F-35 fleet. In return for a ten-year purchasing commitment from the Defense Department, Lockheed Martin will invest at least $7 billion of its own funds in initiatives supporting the fighter program. Pentagon officials expect the long-term agreement to bring greater predictability to military procurement.
The total value of the future contract has not been disclosed. However, Bloomberg describes it as the largest deal in the history of the F-35 program. The agency also sees Washington’s willingness to acquire hundreds of additional aircraft as a strong endorsement of a project that has repeatedly faced criticism from US President Donald Trump and his close associate, businessman Elon Musk.
Despite this backing, the F-35 program continues to struggle with major setbacks. Valued at $51 billion, it is considered the most expensive combat aircraft program in US history. Its development has been plagued by repeated delays in introducing new capabilities, including software updates.
Lockheed Martin has already manufactured nearly 1,400 F-35 fighters, with most of them serving in the US armed forces. If the proposed ten-year contract receives final approval, the company will be required to produce 156 aircraft annually.