Germany’s First F-35A Advances NATO Plans and Lockheed’s 35-Jet Order

Lockheed Martin presented Germany’s first F-35A fighter to the German government on September 18 in Fort Worth, Texas. The milestone starts a 35-aircraft program intended to replace Germany’s aging Tornado fleet.

Germany plans to use the F-35A to preserve its role in NATO’s nuclear-sharing mission. The Bundeswehr says the aircraft will help maintain that capability and improve cooperation with allies that operate the same fighter.

The jet’s stealth features, sensors and secure links are designed to help pilots detect threats and share information. Germany’s armed forces say common aircraft also create more opportunities for joint training and operations.

The presentation does not mean the plane is ready for combat in Germany. Lockheed Martin says the first eight aircraft will go to Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas for pilot training, while the first German F-35s are expected in-country in late 2027.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the country aims for full operational capability by 2029. The Bundeswehr has said it plans to retire its Tornados by 2030, making the transition schedule a key measure of whether the new fleet can take over on time.

For NATO, the rollout is a step toward keeping Germany’s air and nuclear-sharing commitments in place as older aircraft leave service. The F-35 program has been selected by 20 nations, including 13 in Europe, creating a wider pool of allied operators for training and coordination.

For Lockheed Martin, the German order adds 35 aircraft to a program with longer-term opportunities in training, maintenance and upgrades. But the ceremony itself does not change the order size or establish a near-term revenue boost. Delivery progress and Germany’s move toward operational service will matter more to the company’s outlook.

Lockheed Martin also says German industry has contributed to the F-35 program since 2001 and may take on additional manufacturing, sustainment and research work. Any expansion would deepen local ties to the program, though the company has not detailed specific new contracts.