Germany plans to expand F-35 fleet to 50 fighters and strengthen NATO defense (X @LockheedMartin)
Germany is preparing to order 15 additional F-35 fighters from Lockheed Martin, bringing the total planned to 50 aircraft.
The deal, estimated at approximately $2.9 billion, is expected to be submitted for approval by the budget committee of the Bundestag. The new aircraft aim to replace the aging Tornado fleet of the Luftwaffe and maintain the capability to carry nuclear weapons under NATO’s nuclear sharing program.
According to internal documents, the fleet expansion is part of a strategic effort to strengthen Germany’s deterrence following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The F-35A, selected by several NATO nations, stands out for its stealth capabilities and interoperability in joint operations. The initiative also reflects closer integration between Berlin, the United States, and alliance partners.
The original 35-fighter program was launched in 2022 as part of a $116 billion special defense fund established after the war in Ukraine. With deliveries expected to begin in 2026 and infrastructure already being adapted at Büchel Air Base, the fleet expansion reinforces Germany’s role in NATO collective defense and its ability to respond to conventional and nuclear threats in Europe.
Source: Defence Blog | Photo: X @LockheedMartin | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team
❗️🇩🇪Germany plans to purchase an additional 15 🇺🇸American F-35A fighters to the 35 already ordered pic.twitter.com/nofrAXVtd5
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