Germany’s first F-35A enters final production stage in Texas

The first of 35 F-35A fighter jets ordered by Germany has entered the final stages of production at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The aircraft, designated MG-01, is currently undergoing painting and the application of its specialized stealth coating.

Following the completion of these final processes, the aircraft is expected to perform its first flight later in 2026. The initial eight jets will be stationed at the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas, where German pilots and maintenance crews will undergo training alongside American instructors and other allied F-35 operators.

The F-35A fleet is intended to gradually replace Germany’s aging Panavia Tornado fleet. After the training period in the United States, the aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Büchel Air Base in Germany by the end of 2027.