The German Ministry of Defence announced yesterday that it will procure 35 F-35 fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin from the USA. The procurement was approved yesterday at a session of the parliamentary Budget Committee.

The agreement consists of a comprehensive package that includes engines, special equipment, spare and replaceable parts, technical and logistic support, training and armament.

Bridget Lauderdale, Lockheed Martin vice president and general manager of the F-35 Program, said: “We are honored to formally invite Germany to the F-35 Lightning II Program. Germany’s participation helps strengthen the F-35’s European alliance through interoperability with NATO and allied nations. The F-35 is the most advanced, survivable, best value fighter aircraft that gives pilots a critical advantage over any enemy, enabling them to complete their mission and return home safely.” 

F-35 Program Executive Lieutenant General Michael Schmidt said: “Congratulations to Germany for supplying the F-35A. Germany is the ninth foreign military sales country to participate in the program. We look forward to working with them to deliver the F-35 Air System to meet national defence requirements.”

German pilots are scheduled to begin training with the new aircraft in the United States in 2026. In 2027, these trainings are expected to continue in Germany and to realize the first operational capability in 2028.

While the F-35 operates at 26 bases around the world, it is actively used by nine countries.  Germany’s supply of the F-35 is an important step in terms of national and European security.