Germany has received its first F-35A Lightning II fighter jet from the United States as the country steps up military spending and modernises its armed forces.
The aircraft was formally handed over to the German government by Lockheed Martin during a ceremony at the company’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 18, 2026. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius attended the ceremony.
Pistorius described the F-35A as a major development for the German Air Force, highlighting its stealth capabilities, advanced sensors and ability to operate closely with other military platforms.
Germany ordered 35 F-35A fighter jets in 2022 to replace its ageing Tornado aircraft. The new jets are also intended to support Germany’s role in NATO’s nuclear-sharing arrangements.
The delivery comes as Germany and other European NATO members increase defence spending amid heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In 2025, NATO members agreed to increase security-related spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035, following pressure from the administration of US President Donald Trump.
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