Germany has received the first of nearly three dozen F-35 stealth warplanes it ordered from Lockheed Martin four years ago, amid a wider push to boost NATO military spending.
Key facts
- Germany received its first F-35 stealth fighter jet from the United States.
- The aircraft is the first of nearly three dozen ordered from Lockheed Martin.
- The order was placed four years ago.
- The delivery comes as NATO boosts military spending.
Germany has received the first of nearly three dozen F-35 stealth warplanes it ordered from US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin, according to Al Jazeera. The delivery marks the beginning of a phased handover of the advanced aircraft that the country committed to acquiring four years ago.
The F-35 is a stealth fighter jet produced by Lockheed Martin, one of the largest defence contractors in the United States. Germany’s order for nearly three dozen of the aircraft represents a significant investment in modernising its air force capabilities.
The arrival of the first jet comes as NATO members boost their military spending, reflecting a broader effort across the alliance to strengthen defence capacity. Al Jazeera reported the delivery in the context of this wider increase in spending among member states.
The order was placed four years ago, meaning the first delivery follows a lengthy procurement and production timeline before the aircraft reached Germany. The remaining jets in the order are expected to follow as part of the ongoing arrangement with Lockheed Martin.
The handover underscores continued defence cooperation between Germany and the United States, with Lockheed Martin supplying the fleet of stealth warplanes to a key NATO ally in Europe.
Why it matters
The delivery of Germany's first F-35 signals the country's commitment to modernising its military at a time when NATO members are increasing defence spending. Stealth fighter jets are among the most advanced military aircraft available, and the acquisition strengthens the alliance's collective air capabilities in Europe.
Frequently asked questions
How many F-35 jets did Germany order?
Germany ordered nearly three dozen F-35 stealth warplanes from Lockheed Martin, according to Al Jazeera.
Who makes the F-35 jets Germany is receiving?
The F-35 stealth warplanes are made by US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
When did Germany place the order?
Germany placed the order four years ago, according to Al Jazeera.