News Summary
Fort Worth is at the forefront of F-35 Lightning II production, serving as a significant driver for local jobs and economic growth. Home to numerous subcontractors, including small businesses, Fort Worth’s robust economy thrives on this pivotal military program. With the F-35’s impressive global sales and military significance, this innovative aircraft not only boosts the local economy but also fortifies military capability worldwide. Despite challenges, the future of the F-35 program in Texas appears bright, promising continued expansion and economic development.
Texas is witnessing significant economic growth and advancements in military capabilities driven by the F-35 Lightning II program. This cutting-edge fighter jet, recognized as the most advanced in the world, is primarily assembled in Fort Worth, Texas, and supports a vast network of subcontractors critical to its production.
The F-35 program is supported by approximately 1,900 high-tech subcontractors, over 1,000 of which are small businesses. This intricate supply chain highlights the importance of local enterprise in bolstering the overall economy as well as national defense. Among these businesses is Gamma Aerospace, a Mansfield-based manufacturer founded in 1971, responsible for producing essential parts used in the F-35. Gamma Aerospace recently hosted local business leaders and political figures for a demonstration of the F-35’s cockpit, showcasing its pivotal role in the program.
According to estimates, the F-35 program supports over 270,000 jobs nationwide and generates an annual economic impact of approximately $72 billion. The aircraft itself costs between $80 million and $110 million, with more than 1,000 jets delivered to 20 countries, including the United States.
U.S. Representative Jake Ellzey has emphasized the F-35’s strategic importance in various global military conflicts, including recent operations involving Israel and Iran. Despite facing criticism from notable figures like Tesla CEO Elon Musk—who referred to the F-35 as “obsolete” in light of escalating drone technology—the program continues to affirm its relevance in modern warfare.
The F-35 program has faced challenges, including a multibillion-dollar cancellation of orders from Spain and reconsiderations from countries like Switzerland and Portugal regarding their purchases. Nonetheless, the economic contributions of the program in Texas are substantial, with Lockheed Martin reporting over $9.9 billion in annual revenue and providing more than 49,000 jobs statewide.
In terms of operational capacity, the F-35 has proven its combat effectiveness with over 1 million flight hours documented globally. Currently, there are more than 1,200 operational F-35s worldwide, fulfilling crucial roles in the U.S. and allied air defense systems.
Amidst trade uncertainties, Lockheed Martin executives remain optimistic about the F-35’s future. The company reports a $215 million increase in F-35 sales for the first quarter of 2025, totaling $18 billion. Lockheed anticipates maintaining an annual production rate exceeding 150 aircraft, ensuring the program’s sustainability and continued economic impact.
Internationally, Norway has received its 52nd F-35A, becoming the first partner nation to fulfill its order, which enhances its military capabilities and strengthens collaboration within NATO. The F-35 program boasts a global supply chain involving over 1,600 American companies, substantially benefiting the U.S. economy.
The overall landscape suggests a resilient future for the F-35 program, which continues not only to augment military readiness but also to underpin economic growth throughout Texas and beyond. As communities rally around this program, both for its defense applications and local job creation, the F-35 remains a central figure in discussions about the intersection of advanced technology and national defense.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Dallas News: Lockheed’s F-35 Fighter Jet Makes a Splash in North Texas
- Fort Worth Business: U.S. Rep. Jake Ellzey Takes Flight in F-35 Simulator
- Star-Telegram: The F-35’s Impact on Fort Worth
- Lockheed Martin: Norway Becomes First F-35 Partner Nation to Fulfill its Program of Record
- Business Insider: Inside the Mile-Long Factory Where F-35 Stealth Fighters are Made
- Wikipedia: F-35 Lightning II
- Google Search: F-35 Fighter Jet
- Google Scholar: F-35 Fighter Jet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: F-35 Lighting II
- Google News: F-35 Fighter Jet
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
