US Air Force Reduces F-35 Orders, Impacting Lockheed Martin

The US Air Force has revised its procurement request, reducing its order for Lockheed Martin’s F-35 fighter jets by half. This marks a significant shift that could affect the defense industry’s major players, according to a report from Bloomberg News.

Initially, the Air Force had requested 48 F-35 jets in its latest procurement document sent to Congress, but that number has now been slashed. Critics have long argued that the F-35 program exemplifies the challenges inherent in Pentagon contracting, especially given its anticipated costs of up to $2 trillion compared to over $20 trillion the Department of Defense is expected to spend in 2024.

As of May 2024, there are approximately 630 F-35s operational within the US military, with additional units sold to other nations. The military had planned to acquire around 2,000 more jets, but this recent reduction may complicate those plans. It’s worth noting that the future of procurement demands could shift significantly in Congress, particularly since Lockheed Martin has many supporters on Capitol Hill. The company has already spent over $3.5 million on lobbying efforts in 2025.

The F-35 is touted as a fifth-generation fighter designed for multiple roles, incorporating vertical takeoff and landing capabilities as well as stealth technology intended for use across military branches. Lockheed Martin delivered its first F-35 in 2006, and as of now, 967 jets have been produced, with 747 already in operation. However, many of these aircraft face ongoing maintenance issues, complicating their operational readiness.

Each F-35 costs around $80 million to produce, which has been a source of contention, particularly given the shifting nature of modern warfare that increasingly favors cost-effective, mass-produced drones. Recently, former President Donald Trump announced plans for a new sixth-generation fighter jet, the F-47, which has sparked discussions about a new aircraft contract for Boeing, another major defense manufacturer.

The Trump administration prioritized reforming the Pentagon’s contracting system, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegses issued orders in May to reevaluate these contracts. A Lockheed spokesman asserted that the F-35 remains vital for US military power, claiming it provides advanced capabilities crucial for maintaining an edge against emerging threats. The Air Force has not commented on this development.