The German Ministry of Defense has officially announced an order for 35 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets. The upcoming order was already more or less known. Formally, the German Bundestag still had to give the necessary approval.

The agreement with the manufacturer includes a comprehensive package of engines, role-specific mission equipment, spare and interchangeable parts, technical and logistical support, training and armament. A cornerstone for interoperability with NATO, the F-35 is the only fifth-generation fighter aircraft available today to strengthen Germany's operational capability with its allies. Connectivity is becoming increasingly important as the battlefield continues to evolve, and the F-35 is poised to play a critical role in this transformation and contribute to 21st century security missions. To date, the F-35 is in service at 26 bases worldwide, with nine nations operating F-35s on their home soil. Today, more than 875 F-35s are in service, and more than 1.845 pilots and 13.350 maintenance personnel are trained on the aircraft.

“It is my honor to officially welcome Germany to the F-35 Lightning II program. Germany's participation ensures that the European F-35 alliance will continue to strengthen and grow through interoperability with NATO and allied nations,” said Bridget Lauderdale, vice president and general manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin. "The F-35 is the most advanced, survivable and affordable fighter aircraft that gives pilots the edge against any opponent and enables them to complete their mission and return home safely."