Nearly 1,300 are operational with over 1 million flight hours.
Pentagon reports have criticized the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) for weak oversight of Lockheed Martin.
The F-35, while unrivaled in its capabilities, remains plagued by long-term sustainment issues, high costs, and readiness challenges, even as it becomes the dominant 5th-generation strike aircraft for the U.S. and its allies. Dod (35) mp4
Widely considered the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter ever built.
Persistent issues with engine production and lack of spare parts have hindered availability. Nearly 1,300 are operational with over 1 million
The F-35 is undeniably the best 5th-gen fighter, but the DoD is struggling with the high price of maintaining it. While it boasts a stellar combat capability, the program requires intense, ongoing management to resolve maintenance and parts shortages. Specific pilot safety issues mentioned in audits? Production schedules for future batches (lots)? Video - F-35 JPO 2024 Year In Review
Its ability to collect, analyze, and share data acts as a "quarterback of the skies". and its allies
The cost of the F-35A model has decreased to roughly , a strong value for its advanced capabilities. The Bad: Sustainment and Quality Issues Skyrocketing Sustainment Costs: Projected to reach trillion by 2023, a increase over 2018 projections.