Lockheed Martin’s first F-35A Lightning II for Germany has left final assembly at the company’s Fort Worth plant in Texas and entered Aircraft Final Finishes, the last production stage before rollout. The aircraft, designated MG-01, is now due to receive paint, stealth coating and other finishing work as part of Germany’s F-35 acquisition programme.
The milestone keeps the Luftwaffe’s first F-35A on track for an official rollout planned for 18 September 2026, with first flight and later handover still to follow. The aircraft is part of Germany’s effort to replace the Tornado fleet and prepare for its future operational roles, including support for NATO and the nuclear-sharing mission.
Reports indicate that seven additional German F-35As are already in various stages of assembly at Fort Worth, reflecting the pace of the production line for the first Luftwaffe batch. The initial aircraft are expected to remain in the United States after rollout for training at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas before any transfer to Germany.