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2 clusters · 3 sources · 22 days · First seen · Last updated

Germany F-35A fighter jet procurement

Overview

Germany is progressing with its procurement of 35 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters to replace its aging Panavia Tornado fleet. The first aircraft, designated MG-01, entered the final production stages in Fort Worth, Texas, in August 2026, undergoing painting and stealth coating application.

By September 2026, the MG-01 completed its maiden flight. This acquisition is a strategic component of Germany’s military modernization, specifically intended to support NATO nuclear-sharing missions through the aircraft's ability to deploy B61-12 tactical nuclear bombs.

Following the initial flight phase, German pilots and maintenance crews will undergo training at the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. The first aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Büchel Air Base in Germany by the end of 2027, with full delivery of the 35-jet fleet expected by 2029.

Entities

Luftwaffe · Germany · Lockheed Martin · NATO · Fort Worth

Timeline

  1. 3 days ago

    [POLITICS] 3 sources
    Germany's first F-35A stealth fighter completes maiden flight

    Germany's first F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter has completed its maiden flight in Texas, marking a key step in modernizing the Luftwaffe and fulfilling NATO nuclear-sharing commitments.

  2. 25 days ago

    [TECHNOLOGY] 6 sources
    Germany’s first F-35A enters final production stage in Texas

    Germany’s first F-35A fighter jet, MG-01, has reached the final production stage in Texas. It is expected to fly in 2026 before undergoing pilot training in the US and arriving in Germany by late 2027.

Sources

indomiliter.com · outono.net · petel.bg