The future of a sixth-generation fighter for Germany remains uncertain due to disputes with the French. However, everything is fine with the fifth generation, the first F-35 for the Luftwaffe has reached the final assembly stage in the U.S.
According to manufacturer Lockheed Martin's statement, the aircraft's wing, forward, center, as well as aft fuselage sections were joined using an electronic mate and alignment system with advanced laser-guided fixtures. After this, the aircraft was placed on its landing gear for the first time.
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After traveling by crane along production facilities a mile long, the fighter arrived at final assembly. This is where the engine, control panels, as well as remaining necessary systems will be installed.
F-35 manufacturing for the Luftwaffe began in December 2024. We're talking about the aircraft itself, as some required components start being made earlier. The first aircraft belongs to a batch of 8 units that will be ready in 2026. They will remain at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in the U.S. for pilot and other personnel training.
Overall, the Germans ordered 35 F-35As back in 2022 to replace Panavia Tornado primarily in the role of carrier for American nuclear bombs, although they may take over other tasks as well. Deliveries to Germany itself will begin in 2027 and continue until 2029, with full combat readiness in 2030.
Interestingly, information appeared about increasing American fighter procurement volumes, such as another 15 aircraft for €2 billion. However, German government officials are still denying such plans, possibly to avoid problems with the EU and especially France.
The joint Franco-German-Spanish FCAS sixth-generation combat aircraft project is on the verge of collapse, although attempts to save everything still exist. The reason is disputes between industry over how to divide work.
While German unions are demanding withdrawal from cooperation, independent creation may become a very dubious task if other partners are not found. Therefore, searches are underway for an unmanned fighter-bomber, for which Airbus is proposing the XQ-58A Valkyrie.
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