Germany's first F-35A stealth fighter completes maiden flight

The German Air Force (Luftwaffe) has reached a major milestone in its military modernization program with the successful maiden flight of its first F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter. The aircraft, designated MG-01 with military tail number 35+01, completed its first flight at the Lockheed Martin manufacturing facility in Fort Worth, Texas.

This flight marks the beginning of Germany’s transition to fifth-generation air power. The procurement of 35 F-35A units, originally contracted in 2022, is intended to replace the aging Panavia Tornado fleet. A key strategic component of this acquisition is the aircraft's capability to support NATO nuclear-sharing missions, as the F-35A variant is designed to carry and deploy B61-12 tactical nuclear bombs.

Before arriving in Europe, the aircraft and its pilots will undergo training in the United States. Initial units will be stationed at the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas to serve as a conversion training center for Luftwaffe pilots and technicians. The first wave of aircraft is scheduled to arrive at Büchel Air Base in Germany in 2027, with the full delivery of all 35 jets expected to be completed by 2029.