The F-35 Lightning II is no longer just a concept; it is the battle-tested backbone of Western airpower. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the program has produced over 1,200 aircraft globally.
However, the program remains a paradox. While it demonstrated unprecedented dominance in 2024 and 2025 operations, it faces escalating sustainment costs now projected at $1.58 trillion and persistent upgrade delays.
Table of Contents
1. Combat Proven: F-35 Combat Record 2024-2025
Critics often asked if the F-35 could fight. When examining the F-35 combat record 2024 and 2025, the answer is definitive.
Operation Rising Lion (June 2025)
In a historic display of 5th-generation capability, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) conducted Operation Rising Lion. Leveraging unique Israel F-35I Adir modifications—which allow for local electronic warfare integration—the IAF achieved remarkable results:
- Sorties: Over 1,400 combat sorties flown.
- Success Rate: Zero aircraft lost despite dense air defense environments.
- Range: Strikes conducted over 1,000 miles from base.
F-35 Beast Mode Explained
During these operations, the F-35 Beast Mode explained its value in real combat. By carrying heavy ordnance on external wing pylons after neutralizing air defenses, the jets transitioned from “Day One” stealth penetrators to “Day Two” heavy trucks, delivering massive firepower.
S-300 Neutralization
In October 2024, F-35s validated their stealth design by identifying and neutralizing advanced Russian-made S-300 air defense batteries within Iranian territory.
2. Latest Developments (2024-2025)
The F-35 is evolving rapidly. Here are the critical updates defining the program right now:
The TR-3 Delivery Crisis & Resolution
The transition to Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) hardware caused a major disruption. Due to software stability issues, the Pentagon halted deliveries from July 2023 to July 2024. While deliveries have resumed, Lockheed Martin is currently working through a backlog.
F-35 Block 4 Upgrade Cost
The ambitious Block 4 modernization aims to bring new weapons and sensors to the jet. However, the F-35 Block 4 upgrade cost has risen to an estimated $16.5 billion, with full completion delayed until 2029. Despite the price tag, features like “Six-in-the-Bay” (carrying 6 internal AMRAAMs) make it essential for near-peer conflicts.
Engine Core Upgrade (ECU)
The US Department of Defense officially canceled the Adaptive Engine (AETP) program. Instead, Pratt & Whitney’s F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) was selected to provide power for Block 4 systems.
3. The Cost Reality: Production & Sustainment
The “Flyaway” cost has stabilized, but the long-term bill is eye-watering.
F-35 Production Numbers 2025
Lockheed Martin faced challenges meeting targets. Looking at F-35 production numbers 2025, the goal is to recover to 160-170 jets annually as Lot 15-17 production ramps up, following the 2024 dip where only ~110 aircraft were delivered.
The $1.58 Trillion Question
New Congressional reports indicate the total lifecycle sustainment cost has risen to $1.58 trillion. Reducing the Cost Per Flight Hour (CPFH) remains the program’s biggest hurdle.
4. Technical Specifications
Below are the confirmed performance metrics for the F-35A (CTOL) variant.
- Crew: 1 (Pilot)
- Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 afterburning turbofan
- Max Speed: Mach 1.6 (~1,200 mph)
- Service Ceiling: 50,000 ft
- Combat Range (Internal Fuel): ~669 nmi
Weapons Capacity
- Internal Bay: Up to 5,700 lbs (Stealth Configuration)
- External Pylons: Up to 15,000 lbs (Beast Mode)
- Total Payload: 22,000 lbs combined
5. One Aircraft, Three Missions
| Variant | Primary Role | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| F-35A | Air Force (CTOL) | Standard runway ops. Internal 25mm cannon. |
| F-35B | Marines (STOVL) | Vertical landing capability via LiftFan®. |
| F-35C | Navy (CV) | Larger wings for carriers. Most internal fuel. |
6. Geopolitics & New Operators
The F-35 club continues to expand.
- Finland: Receiving its first F-35A in December 2025.
- Saudi Arabia: Talks have revived for a potential sale.
- Global Fleet: Over 1,200 jets are now operating globally.
7. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
F-35 vs Su-57 comparison: Which is better?
In a direct F-35 vs Su-57 comparison, the F-35 wins on numbers and stealth. Russia has fewer than 40 operational Su-57s, while over 1,200 F-35s are in service. The F-35 also features superior sensor fusion and all-aspect stealth, whereas the Su-57 has a higher radar cross-section but superior maneuverability (super-maneuverability).
How does the F-35 compare to China’s J-20?
The F-35 holds a massive advantage in fleet size and networking. While the J-20 is a potent long-range interceptor, the F-35’s ability to share data with allied forces makes it a superior “force multiplier.”
Has the F-35 seen real combat?
Yes. Notably, during Operation Rising Lion (June 2025), Israeli F-35s flew 1,400+ sorties with zero losses.
What is the TR-3 upgrade?
Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) provides the computing power needed for Block 4 software. Stability issues with TR-3 caused a year-long delivery halt (2023-2024).
What is “Six-in-the-Bay”?
A Block 4 capability that allows F-35A/C variants to carry six AIM-120 AMRAAMs internally instead of four.
Conclusion: The F-35 Lightning II is expensive and complex, but its performance in 2024-2025 proves it is indispensable for the Western alliance.
