Hardware FixRecommendedDevice not working? Your driver may be the problemCheck updates for common hardware issues.Fix DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

Where Is the F-35 Lightning II Built—and Who Makes It?

The F-35 Lightning II is primarily final-assembled by Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, but complete aircraft are also assembled in Italy and Japan. Its major structures and systems come from a multinational network of companies including Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo, Rheinmetall, and Patria.
Entry517 Date Time15 min MechanicCarCody Team

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The F-35 Lightning II is primarily final-assembled by Lockheed Martin at Air Force Plant 4 in Fort Worth, Texas. Complete F-35s are also assembled at Final Assembly and Check-Out (FACO) facilities in Cameri, Italy, and Nagoya, Japan. The aircraft is not made by Lockheed Martin alone: Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Rheinmetall, Patria, and a large international supplier network produce its airframe sections, engine, propulsion equipment, sensors, and other systems.

In other words, “made by Lockheed Martin” identifies the prime aircraft contractor, not a single factory where every component is manufactured. An F-35 may be assembled in Texas, Italy, or Japan from major sections produced across the United States and several partner countries.

The short answer

  • Main final-assembly site: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics at Air Force Plant 4 in Fort Worth, Texas.
  • Other complete-aircraft assembly sites: Leonardo’s Cameri FACO in Italy and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Komaki South FACO in Nagoya, Japan.
  • Prime contractor: Lockheed Martin.
  • Major partners: Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Rheinmetall, Patria, and companies throughout the global F-35 supply chain.

Where are complete F-35 aircraft assembled?

“Final assembly” is the key distinction. The F-35’s major sections and systems are manufactured at different locations, then shipped to a FACO or final-assembly line. There, workers join the sections, install equipment and the engine, conduct inspections and systems checks, and prepare the aircraft for testing and delivery.

Location Organization Role Variants
Fort Worth, Texas, United States Lockheed Martin Aeronautics The program’s principal final-assembly and check-out operation and the main U.S. production line. F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C
Cameri, Italy Leonardo, operating with Lockheed Martin Final Assembly and Check-Out of selected aircraft; also produces F-35A wing assemblies. F-35A and F-35B
Komaki South, Nagoya, Japan Mitsubishi Heavy Industries with Japanese industry and Lockheed Martin support Final assembly and check-out of Japan’s F-35A aircraft. F-35A only

Fort Worth remains the central aircraft production location. Lockheed Martin describes the site as a roughly one-mile F-35 manufacturing line, and it assembles aircraft for the United States and many international customers. Japan’s F-35B aircraft are a specific exception: although Japan final-assembles its F-35As at Nagoya, its F-35Bs are produced at Fort Worth. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 production information and Japan program page describe these roles.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Postage Stamp USAF B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber Die-Cast Model – 1:280 Scale Long-Range Strategic Aircraft Replica with Display Stand, Highly Detailed, 3” L x 7.4” Wingspan, Adult Collectible Ages 14+
  • Iconic B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber Replica: A highly detailed 1:280 scale model of the legendary B-2 Spirit, the U.S. Air Force’s advanced long-range stealth bomber, developed to replace the aging B-52 fleet.
  • Die-Cast Metal Construction: Made from high-quality die-cast metal with select plastic parts, this model captures the B-2’s unique boomerang shape and stealth-focused design, perfect for aviation enthusiasts.
  • Stealth & Power in One Model: Accurately replicates the bomber’s specialized radar-evading shape and capability to deliver both nuclear and conventional payloads, including bombs and rotary launchers.
  • Display-Friendly Size: Measures approximately 3 inches long with a wide 7 3/8 inch wingspan, ideal for desktops, shelves, or as part of a military aircraft collection.
  • Includes Custom Display Stand: Comes with a sturdy plastic stand for dynamic display in flight mode, recommended for adult collectors and military aviation fans aged 14 and up.

Cameri, Italy

The Cameri facility is owned by Italy’s Ministry of Defense and operated by Leonardo in cooperation with Lockheed Martin. It is a genuine complete-aircraft assembly site, not merely a parts plant. Cameri performs final assembly and check-out for F-35A and F-35B aircraft and manufactures F-35A wing sets. It has assembled aircraft for Italy and other customers, although the customer and lot assigned to Cameri can change and should not be assumed without a current production source.

Cameri is therefore best described as a second international F-35 assembly center within the Lockheed Martin-led program. An aircraft assembled there still contains major structures, propulsion equipment, avionics, and other parts made in multiple countries. Lockheed Martin’s description of the Italian FACO confirms its ownership, operating arrangement, aircraft variants, and wing-production role.

The site remains active as of the research cutoff of August 10, 2026. The first Polish F-35A assigned for construction at Cameri completed its first functional test flight in July 2026, according to Lockheed Martin.

Nagoya, Japan

Japan’s FACO is located at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Komaki South Plant in Nagoya. It performs final assembly and check-out of Japanese F-35A aircraft. Japan’s F-35B aircraft, however, are built in Fort Worth rather than at the Nagoya facility. This variant-specific difference is easy to miss when “Japan builds the F-35” is used as a shorthand.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense confirmed the continued operation of the Komaki South FACO during a 2024 visit by the U.S. under secretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment. Japan’s Ministry of Defense provides that confirmation.

Who makes the F-35?

Lockheed Martin: prime contractor and final assembler

Lockheed Martin is the F-35’s prime aircraft contractor. That means it has overall responsibility for the aircraft program, including design authority, systems integration, supply-chain management, major airframe production, final assembly, testing coordination, delivery, sustainment, and modernization support.

That role is why the F-35 is commonly called a Lockheed Martin aircraft. It does not mean that Lockheed Martin manufactures every component. The U.S. Government Accountability Office identifies Lockheed Martin as the aircraft prime contractor and Pratt & Whitney as the primary engine contractor. The GAO’s F-35 documentation explains that division of responsibility.

Northrop Grumman: center fuselage, radar, and mission systems

Northrop Grumman produces the F-35’s center fuselage for all three variants. The section includes important structural elements, part of the internal weapons bay, and fuel capacity. Northrop’s highly automated Integrated Assembly Line is at its Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence in Palmdale, California.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Northrop Grumman also contributes the AN/APG-81 active electronically scanned array radar, communications and navigation systems, electro-optical and infrared sensor technologies, wing skins, mission-system software and integration, and low-observable technologies. Its Palmdale production line has been described by the company as capable of completing a center fuselage approximately every 30 hours; that is a dated production-rate claim and can change as the program evolves. See Northrop Grumman’s F-35 overview and its automation and robotics explanation.

BAE Systems: rear fuselage and tails

BAE Systems produces the F-35’s rear or aft fuselage at its facilities in England, principally at Samlesbury in Lancashire. It also makes the horizontal and vertical tails. BAE Systems’ work extends beyond structures: the company contributes electronic-warfare equipment, vehicle-management computers, fuel-system design authority, crew-escape and life-support systems, and other systems and components.

Rank #2
Udnorbay C-130 Hercules Die-cast Airplanes Model-1/200 Scale
  • Precision Tactical Aviation Design – The C-130 Hercules accurately captures the iconic high-wing turboprop configuration, multi-panel rear cargo ramp, and distinctive "Hercules hump" cockpit contour. Features include detailed wing-mounted Allison T56 engines, authentic U.S. Air Force tactical gray camouflage, and modular cargo bay with optional troop seating or vehicle loading configurations, representing the world’s premier tactical airlifter that has delivered critical logistics support from Vietnam to Afghanistan across six decades of service
  • Superior Detail & Craftsmanship – Expertly crafted with die-cast alloy and precision plastic components, this 1:200 C-130 model authentically captures the airlifter's rugged profile with its high-wing design and four-engine configuration. The hybrid construction ensures crisp contours, including the cargo ramp and six-blade props, while the flawless finish replicates the operational gray scheme—delivering museum-quality realism
  • Ready for Immediate Display - Comes fully assembled with a included display stand. Simply unbox it to showcase this engineering marvel on your desk, shelf, or in a cabinet—no tools or glue required
  • Collector-Quality Presentation - Features detailed landing gear, weapon bay outlines, and a presentation base. It’s the perfect gift for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates advanced military technology
  • Thoughtful & Hassle-Free Presentation - The model is securely packaged in a protective box, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition. It’s the complete, thoughtful gift solution—no need for separate wrapping or last-minute shopping stress

BAE Systems says its rear fuselage is used on every F-35 in the global fleet. The claim should be understood as the company’s role in the program and is supported by BAE Systems’ F-35 page and its Samlesbury production description.

Pratt & Whitney: the F135 engine

The production F-35 engine is the Pratt & Whitney F135, not a Lockheed Martin product. Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, assembles and tests production F135 engines at its Engine Center in Middletown, Connecticut. The engine is supplied separately to the aircraft program and integrated into the airframe during aircraft production.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Government procurement documentation treats the F135 as government-furnished equipment delivered to Lockheed Martin for aircraft integration. Pratt & Whitney’s F135 production announcement and Middletown engine-manufacturing explanation describe the company’s role.

Rolls-Royce: the F-35B LiftSystem

Rolls-Royce does not make the entire F-35B engine. Pratt & Whitney makes the F135 main engine, while Rolls-Royce supplies the separate LiftSystem that gives the F-35B its short-takeoff and vertical-landing capability.

The LiftSystem includes the LiftFan, driveshaft and clutch, three-bearing swivel module, and roll posts. Together, these components redirect and manage propulsion for vertical lift. Rolls-Royce describes the F-35B LiftSystem here.

Leonardo: wings and Italy’s FACO

Leonardo manufactures F-35A wing assemblies at Cameri and operates the Italian FACO with Lockheed Martin. It also performs final assembly and check-out of selected Italian and foreign F-35A and F-35B aircraft and contributes to European F-35 maintenance and sustainment.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries: Japan’s F-35A assembly

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries operates Japan’s Komaki South FACO in cooperation with Japanese industry and Lockheed Martin. Its main F-35 production role is final assembly and check-out of Japanese F-35A aircraft, not independent design or production of the complete fighter.

Rheinmetall: Germany’s center-fuselage production

Germany has joined the F-35 manufacturing network, but Germany does not currently operate a complete-aircraft F-35 final-assembly line. Rheinmetall, working with Northrop Grumman, produces center fuselages at a facility in Weeze, Germany.

Lockheed Martin’s Germany program page records the 2023 groundbreaking for the German F-35 Integrated Assembly Line, the start of production of the first German F-35 in 2024, and the beginning of Rheinmetall center-fuselage production at Weeze in 2025. The phrase “German F-35 production” therefore refers to an important airframe-section operation, not final assembly of whole aircraft. Northrop Grumman expects the German facility to help raise total center-fuselage capacity to approximately 175–185 units per year beginning in 2027. That is a projected capacity figure, not a current complete-aircraft output figure. See Lockheed Martin’s Germany page and Northrop Grumman’s Germany information.

Patria: Finland’s new forward-fuselage and engine work

Finland became a newly relevant F-35 production location in 2026. At Patria’s Halli facility in Jämsä, production of F-35 forward fuselages began in early March 2026. Patria also produces landing-gear-door sets. Under the current framework, the company is scheduled to produce 400 forward-fuselage and landing-gear-door sets between 2026 and 2042. These sections are shipped to Lockheed Martin’s final-assembly line in Fort Worth; Patria does not assemble complete F-35 aircraft.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
NUOTIE 1/100 F/A-18 Super Hornet Fighter Jet Alloy Diecast Model
  • REALISTIC F-18 DIECAST MODEL DESIGN This detailed F-18 MODEL features realistic fighter jet styling inspired by modern military aircraft. The carefully crafted design makes it an eye-catching display piece for aviation enthusiasts, collectors, and MILITARY FANS who appreciate authentic aircraft ornaments.
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR AVIATION ENTHUSIASTS An excellent GIFT choice for military aircraft collectors, aviation lovers, hobby enthusiasts, and history fans. Suitable for birthdays, Christmas, Father's Day, holidays, and special occasions for anyone passionate about fighter jet MODEL collections.
  • PREMIUM DESKTOP ORNAMENTS DISPLAY Designed as decorative ORNAMENTS for desks, shelves, offices, bedrooms, and collector cabinets, this military aircraft MODEL adds a unique aviation atmosphere to any room or workspace while showcasing your passion for military aviation.
  • DURABLE DIECAST CONSTRUCTION Made with durable diecast materials, this collectible fighter jet MODEL is designed for long-lasting display and repeated handling. The solid construction enhances realism while providing a premium collectible feel.
  • COLLECTIBLE AVIATION DISPLAY PIECE Whether displayed alone or combined with other military aircraft ORNAMENTS, this F-18 fighter jet helps create an impressive aviation collection. Ideal for collectors who enjoy modern military aircraft and fighter jet replicas.

At Patria’s Linnavuori facility in Nokia, Patria began final assembly of F135 engines for Finnish F-35s in cooperation with Pratt & Whitney. The current arrangement is planned to continue through 2030. This is engine assembly and future support work, not complete-aircraft manufacturing. Patria’s production overview and the F-35 program announcement provide the details.

F-35 production locations by aircraft section

The following map is more useful than simply asking which country “makes” the F-35. It shows where major assemblies and systems enter the program.

Aircraft section or system Main contributor or location What happens there
Forward fuselage Lockheed Martin and, from March 2026, Patria in Halli, Finland Forward-fuselage production and related structural work. Patria’s completed sections are shipped to Fort Worth.
Center fuselage Northrop Grumman in Palmdale, California; Rheinmetall with Northrop Grumman in Weeze, Germany Center-fuselage production for the three-variant fleet and the wider global supply chain.
Center wing assembly Lockheed Martin in Marietta, Georgia Major center-wing assemblies are shipped to Fort Worth for aircraft assembly.
Wing assemblies Leonardo at Cameri, Italy, along with other program production F-35A wing sets are manufactured at Cameri; the complete wing assembly is then joined to the aircraft at final assembly.
Rear fuselage BAE Systems at Samlesbury and other U.K. facilities Rear fuselage production for every F-35, plus tails and associated systems.
Radar and mission systems Northrop Grumman and other program partners Radar, communications, navigation, sensor, software, and low-observable technologies are integrated into the aircraft.
F135 engine Pratt & Whitney in Middletown, Connecticut; Patria in Linnavuori, Finland, for Finnish engine assembly Production-engine assembly and testing, with Finnish industrial participation for Finnish aircraft.
F-35B LiftSystem Rolls-Royce LiftFan, swivel module, driveshaft, clutch, and roll-post equipment for short-takeoff and vertical landing.

Lockheed Martin also builds major airframe elements. Its Marietta, Georgia, facility produces the F-35 center wing assembly, a major structural component representing approximately one-quarter of the aircraft’s fuselage. The assemblies are delivered to Fort Worth, where the wings are attached during final aircraft assembly. Lockheed Martin’s center-wing announcement documents this separate production location.

How an F-35 comes together

The exact manufacturing sequence varies by facility and aircraft lot, but the broad process works like this:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Separate manufacturing: Suppliers and partner companies produce the forward fuselage, center fuselage, wings, center wing, aft fuselage, tails, propulsion equipment, avionics, sensors, and other systems.
  2. Logistics to a final-assembly site: The major sections are transported to Fort Worth, Cameri, or—when applicable—Nagoya. A FACO receives a mixture of domestic and international components; it is not supplied with raw materials to build the entire airplane from scratch.
  3. Major-section alignment: The forward fuselage, center fuselage, wing assembly, and aft section are brought together. At Fort Worth, Lockheed Martin uses its Electronic Mate and Alignment System, employing sensors and lasers to align and join major components. Lockheed Martin’s assembly description identifies the four major sections and the alignment system.
  4. Systems and propulsion integration: The F135 engine is installed and connected to the aircraft systems. F-35B aircraft also receive and integrate the Rolls-Royce LiftSystem equipment required for vertical lift.
  5. Inspection and check-out: The aircraft undergoes quality inspections, equipment installation checks, software and systems checks, and other acceptance work. “Check-out” in FACO means much more than physically joining panels: it covers the verification needed before the aircraft can proceed to testing and delivery.
  6. Testing and delivery: The completed aircraft moves through ground and flight-test activity and is then prepared for delivery to its customer or a subsequent national modification and acceptance process.

This is why “assembled in Italy” or “assembled in Japan” does not mean “manufactured entirely in Italy” or “manufactured entirely in Japan.” Final assembly is the last major industrial stage in a supply chain that crosses national borders.

Where each F-35 variant is assembled

Variant Operating concept Current final-assembly locations Important qualification
F-35A Conventional takeoff and landing Fort Worth; Cameri; Nagoya Japan’s F-35As are assembled at Nagoya. Italy and selected foreign customers may receive aircraft assembled at Cameri, depending on the production plan.
F-35B Short takeoff and vertical landing Fort Worth and Cameri Japan’s F-35Bs are produced at Fort Worth, not Nagoya. The B incorporates the Rolls-Royce LiftSystem.
F-35C Carrier-capable fighter Fort Worth The C has larger wings, strengthened landing gear, and other carrier-specific features. No foreign FACO is identified in the supplied research as assembling the C variant.

All three versions share the F-35 family’s basic design and supply chain, but they are not structurally identical. The F-35B requires its vertical-lift machinery, while the F-35C needs carrier-specific structure, larger wings, and strengthened landing gear. The Government Accountability Office’s F-35 overview describes the three variants and their principal differences.

Which countries contribute to F-35 production?

United States

The United States contains the prime contractor’s Fort Worth final-assembly line, Lockheed Martin’s Marietta center-wing operation, Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale center-fuselage and mission-systems work, and Pratt & Whitney’s Middletown F135 engine facility. It is also home to many additional suppliers and integration activities.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a major industrial partner rather than merely a customer. BAE Systems supplies the rear fuselage, tails, electronic-warfare equipment, vehicle-management systems, and other components for the worldwide fleet. British companies contribute components to every F-35 produced, according to the program’s U.K. information.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Italy

Italy hosts the Cameri FACO, which is owned by the Italian Ministry of Defense and operated by Leonardo with Lockheed Martin. Leonardo also produces F-35A wing assemblies there. Italy is therefore both a final-assembly country and a major airframe-production partner.

Japan

Japan hosts the Komaki South FACO operated by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for Japanese F-35A aircraft. That does not extend to Japan’s F-35B fleet, whose aircraft are built in Fort Worth. Japan also participates in component manufacturing and regional maintenance activities.

Rank #4
NUOTIE 1/100 A-10 Thunderbolt II (Warthog) Attack Pre-Build Metal Model
  • 【Realistic restoration】-The A-10 is a twin-engine, United States-developed and -produced, ground-attack-specialized jet aircraft that performs low-altitude, close-range ground-attack missions. It is armed with a 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger Gatling gun to counter enemy anti-aircraft fire. The A-10 aircraft model accurately captures the details of the real aircraft and is highly reproducible with excellent precision and craftsmanship.
  • 【Material Craft】-This fighter jet model kit is a diecast metal aircraft model, with a fuselage made of high quality metal and detailed molding of engineering plastics to ensure superior durability and longevity. The use of quality materials ensures that the model will stand the test of time and maintain its superior quality, perfect for collecting and displaying as a military aircraft display model.
  • 【Scale and Details】-This military aircraft model kit is modeled after a real A-10A Warthog fighter in 1/100 scale, with overall dimensions of 6.30×6.69×1.57 inches, which enables the model to present a realistic appearance when displayed. There are also 26 missile parts in the belly of the aircraft, The landing gear is removable for added playability, and its overall performance of detail and craftsmanship yet gives a visual effect of heavy realism.
  • 【Fine Packing】-We packaged this 1/100 airplane model kit for adult in a nice box to ensure that it will not be damaged during shipping. The package also comes with a model airplane display stand for your display. Whether you are a military enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates fine model airplanes, the 1/100 A-10 model kit is perfect for you. Not only is it perfect for any military model collection, it also makes a great gift for aviation military enthusiasts.
  • 【Worry-free Purchase】-We adhere to strict production requirements, control the product quality of plane model kit, and ensure that every customer gets satisfactory high-quality products. Within one year, if you find any defect in A-10 Thunderbolt II model, we will provide you with warranty service. If you meet any problem, please feel free to contact us, we will solve it within 24 hours.Thank you for your trust in our products!

Germany

Germany’s contribution is currently centered on Rheinmetall’s Weeze center-fuselage production in cooperation with Northrop Grumman. Germany is part of the F-35 industrial base, but Weeze is not a complete-aircraft final-assembly plant.

Finland

Finland’s Patria contributes forward fuselages and landing-gear-door sets from Halli, plus F135 engine final assembly and planned support work at Linnavuori. The finished aircraft are assembled elsewhere, primarily at Fort Worth for the Finnish production plan.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Other participating countries

Other partner and customer countries participate through industrial-participation agreements, component contracts, maintenance, training, national modifications, and sustainment. Ordering or operating the F-35 does not automatically mean that a country assembles complete aircraft. Customer-specific production assignments can also change by variant, lot, and program decision.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Important country-specific exceptions

Are all F-35s built in the United States?

No. The United States hosts the main Fort Worth line and much of the program’s industrial base, but complete aircraft are also assembled at Cameri in Italy and Komaki South in Japan. Major parts are manufactured in the United States, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Finland, and elsewhere before reaching those assembly sites.

Does Italy manufacture the entire F-35?

No. Cameri assembles selected F-35A and F-35B aircraft and produces F-35A wing sets. It does not independently design or manufacture the entire fighter. The aircraft remains part of the multinational Lockheed Martin-led F-35 program.

Does Germany build complete F-35 fighters?

No. Rheinmetall’s Weeze facility produces center fuselages with Northrop Grumman. That is a major aircraft-section operation, not final assembly of complete F-35s.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Does Japan build its own F-35s?

Japan final-assembles its F-35A aircraft at Nagoya. Japanese F-35Bs are produced at Fort Worth. “Japan builds the F-35” is therefore accurate only when the aircraft variant and the meaning of “builds” are specified.

Is the Israeli F-35I made in Israel?

The Israeli F-35I, known as Adir, is manufactured by Lockheed Martin within the global F-35 production system. Israeli companies participate in component production and later country-specific modifications, but Israel does not operate a complete-aircraft F-35 final-assembly line. The Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Adir program information describes the arrangement.

What has changed in F-35 production recently?

As of August 10, 2026, the newest additions to the production network are in Germany and Finland. Rheinmetall’s Weeze facility is producing center fuselages, while Patria has begun making forward fuselages and landing-gear-door sets at Halli and assembling F135 engines at Linnavuori. These developments expand the multinational supply chain; they do not create new complete-aircraft final-assembly lines.

The program entered full-rate production in March 2024, according to the GAO. Production has nevertheless continued to face delivery and modernization challenges, including Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) issues and parts shortages. In a September 2025 review, the GAO reported that every aircraft delivered by Lockheed Martin in 2024 was late, averaging 238 days late. That finding is schedule context, not evidence that F-35 production stopped.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
NUOTIE 1/144 SR-71 Blackbird Diecast Metal Pre-Build Aircraft Model
  • 【Legendary SR71a Blackbird】- Pay homage to the alloy SR71a Blackbird with this highly detailed 1:144 scale aircraft model kits. Designed as a commemorative piece for all SR71a Blackbird from 1966, it captures the essence of this legendary aircraft and its rich military history.
  • 【Premium Alloy Construction】- Built with a high-quality alloy casing, this SR71a Blackbird 1/144 scale diecast airplane model kits exemplifies durability and authenticity. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail ensure a visually stunning and long-lasting piece that stands the test of time.
  • 【Vibrant and Long-Lasting Colors】- Featuring an electrostatic spray paint finish, this pre-build aircraft model kits vibrant and fade-resistant colors. Whether displayed in well-lit rooms or dimly lit spaces, the SR71a Blackbird airplane model kits maintains its striking appearance, capturing attention and admiration.
  • 【Versatile Display and Gifting Options】- The SR71a Blackbird pre-build airplane model kits is designed to impress with its remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail. Its compact size and exquisite design make it an ideal choice for display in your home, office, or aviation-themed space. Whether you're a military aircraft enthusiast or a collector, this aircraft model kits will be a standout piece in your collection. It also makes a thoughtful and unique gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion.
  • 【Customer Support】- We take pride in offering a One-year warranty on this SR71a Blackbird pre-build aircraft model kits, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind. If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your purchase, our dedicated customer support team is available resolve any concerns within 24 hours.

Lockheed Martin reported delivering 191 F-35s in 2025, which the company described as a delivery record. Because that is a company-reported figure, it should not be treated as an independently audited production statistic. Lockheed Martin’s 2025 announcement provides the attribution. The GAO’s September 2025 review provides the delivery and modernization context.

The simplest accurate way to describe the F-35

For a short answer, say: “The F-35 is a Lockheed Martin aircraft primarily final-assembled in Fort Worth, Texas, with additional final assembly in Cameri, Italy, and Nagoya, Japan.”

For a complete answer, add that Northrop Grumman makes the center fuselage and major mission systems; BAE Systems makes the rear fuselage and tails; Pratt & Whitney makes the F135 engine; Rolls-Royce supplies the F-35B LiftSystem; Leonardo makes wing sets and operates Cameri; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries operates Japan’s F-35A FACO; Rheinmetall makes center fuselages in Germany; and Patria now makes forward fuselages and assembles F135 engines in Finland.

That wording distinguishes the aircraft’s prime contractor, its complete-aircraft assembly sites, and the companies that manufacture its major sections—three different answers to the question of who “builds” the F-35.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the F-35 mainly built?

The main F-35 final-assembly and check-out line is Lockheed Martin Aeronautics’ facility at Air Force Plant 4 in Fort Worth, Texas. Fort Worth assembles F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C aircraft for the United States and many international customers.

What other countries assemble complete F-35 aircraft?

Italy assembles selected F-35A and F-35B aircraft at the Cameri FACO operated by Leonardo with Lockheed Martin. Japan final-assembles its F-35A aircraft at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Komaki South facility in Nagoya. Japanese F-35Bs are built in Fort Worth.

Who makes the F-35 engine?

Pratt & Whitney makes the F135 engine. It is assembled and tested at Pratt & Whitney’s Middletown, Connecticut, facility, while Patria performs F135 final assembly for Finnish aircraft at Linnavuori in cooperation with Pratt & Whitney.

What does Northrop Grumman make for the F-35?

Northrop Grumman produces the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants and contributes the AN/APG-81 radar, communications and navigation equipment, sensor technologies, software, low-observable technologies, wing skins, and other mission systems. Rheinmetall produces additional center fuselages in Germany with Northrop Grumman.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What does Rolls-Royce make for the F-35B?

Rolls-Royce supplies the F-35B LiftSystem, including the LiftFan, driveshaft and clutch, three-bearing swivel module, and roll posts. Pratt & Whitney still makes the F135 main engine.

Is the F-35I Adir made entirely in Israel?

No. The Israeli F-35I is manufactured by Lockheed Martin within the global F-35 production system. Israeli companies contribute components and country-specific modifications, but Israel does not operate a complete-aircraft F-35 final-assembly line.

The Bottom Line

Bottom line: Lockheed Martin is the F-35’s prime contractor, and Fort Worth, Texas, is its main final-assembly site. Complete aircraft are also assembled at Cameri, Italy, and Nagoya, Japan, while the fuselage, wings, engine, LiftSystem, radar, and other major equipment come from a multinational network including Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Rheinmetall, and Patria.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.