Fifth-generation F-35 fighter from Lockheed Martin became more expensive again, but even under these conditions remains extremely beneficial purchase. But naturally not for everyone.
Specifically, as American Air & Space Forces Magazine writes relying on Joint Program Office-provided estimate, F-35 cost in next batches, so-called Lots numbered 18 and 19, will grow by 8.5-11.5% from previous Lots 15-17.
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It is noted new F-35A will cost $92 million (11.52% more). Short takeoff and vertical landing F-35B version — $121.4 million (11.38% more). Carrier-based F-35C version — $110.8 million (8.52% more). Price increase resulted from inflation as well as new component cost for current Block 4 version.
It is noted this is already final price, including engine and radar, for aircraft already ready for operation, so-called flyaway cost. At same time Lots 18-19 will be produced within 2026-2028.
Worth recalling in some American fighter prices, cost without these components may appear, as they are purchased under separate contracts by U.S. government from manufacturers. Specifically F135-PW-100 engine is supplied by Pratt & Whitney, while AN/APG-81 or newer AN/APG-85 radar — by Northrop Grumman.
Defense Express notes price growth occurs despite production massiveness, during which unit cost decrease is expected. At same time over 15 years of serial production over 1,350 aircraft were manufactured, while 2025 annual delivery pace comprised record 191 fighters.
Also worth noting these are prices for U.S. government, not export. Because for foreign clients, various services, spare parts, maintenance, ground equipment, as well as usually weapons are additionally embedded in contract. This is precisely why within complex contract, one conditional F-35 cost will be significantly higher, but otherwise they cannot be purchased anyway.
For example, in 2023 Czechia ordered 24 F-35 fighters at $208.3 million per unit, detailing all expenses maximally. At same time this order concerns aircraft to be manufactured in 2029, meaning within already next Lot 20.
But within Lots 15-17 — Polish 2020 contract for 32 F-35As at $4.6 billion within complex agreement. Meaning $143.75 million per one conditional F-35 Husarz, with which Polish Air Force is already arming.
At same time, for U.S. Air Force purchasing F-35A comes cheaper than, for example, Ukraine purchasing Swedish Gripen E at lowest prices of $168 million per unit. At same time specifically Gripen, as far as known, remains cheapest 4+ generation representative.
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