Lockheed Martin Proposes 10-Year F-35 Production Framework

Strategic Shift in F-35 Procurement

Lockheed Martin announced on October 22, 2026, a new production and sustainment framework for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, a multirole fifth-generation stealth fighter. The proposed 10-year plan outlines the production of 850 aircraft for the U.S. military, alongside initial spares, 10 years of modification kits, and sustainment services. The framework anticipates maintaining a steady production rate of 156 aircraft annually, inclusive of international customer orders.

This initiative marks a significant departure from the historical practice of annual contracting cycles, such as the September 2025 contract for Lots 18 and 19. By moving toward a multiyear procurement model, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government aim to stabilize the industrial base and improve mission-capable rates.

Leadership Perspectives

"This multiyear framework strengthens the way we can plan and invest in the F-35 enterprise," said Jim Taiclet, Chairman, President, and CEO of Lockheed Martin. "With the greater certainty that comes from the U.S. government's transformative approach to F-35 production and sustainment, we can make the upfront investments needed to expand capacity, improve efficiency, and build a more resilient supply chain."

OJ Sanchez, President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, noted the impact on the supply chain, stating, "Our new multiyear framework gives suppliers stability to plan for the future and invest with confidence, improving readiness across the F-35 fleet."

Operational and Economic Impact

Lockheed Martin projects that the program will support 317,000 jobs in the U.S. and generate approximately $79 billion in annual economic activity over the next decade. The company expects the agreement to save billions of dollars by leveraging long-term pricing and industry volume discounts. Furthermore, the framework allows for bulk procurement of raw materials and critical parts, which is intended to reduce turnaround times and mitigate bottlenecks that have previously constrained production.

As of October 2026, there are more than 1,375 F-35s fielded globally across 13 countries, with the fleet having surpassed 1 million flight hours as of March 2025. The aircraft currently operates from 42 bases worldwide.

Regulatory Requirements

The 10-year framework remains contingent upon the U.S. Congress granting specific multiyear procurement authority and providing the necessary appropriations. If authorized, the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) and Lockheed Martin would finalize contract terms, pricing, and schedules under a formal contract award. This legislative process is expected to occur between late 2026 and 2027.