Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt, Program Executive Officer for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “Reaching 1 million flight hours is a monumental milestone for the F-35 program. It highlights the unwavering dedication of our pilots, maintainers, industry partners, and international allies. This accomplishment not only showcases the F-35’s unmatched capabilities but also the resilience and commitment of everyone involved.”
Over these 1 million hours, the F-35 team has continuously enhanced the aircraft’s capabilities, achieving numerous aviation firsts. Among the most recent milestones, the F-35C variant was deployed in combat for the first time in November 2024, successfully executing precision strikes in contested airspace. This marked the completion of combat operations for all F35 variants.
Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F35 Lightning II program at Lockheed Martin, underscored the aircraft’s strategic value: “The F35 is the backbone of the allied force, enabling peace through strength in the 21st century. Looking ahead, we remain committed to advancing its capabilities to stay ahead of evolving threats.”With a growing global fleet exceeding 1,100 jets, the F35 program is now focused on the next 1 million flight hours. Future advancements include enhanced integration with next-generation platforms, such as the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft, ensuring that the F-35 remains at the forefront of air superiority.
“The F35 is not only the world’s most advanced fighter jet, but it also enhances the effectiveness of allied forces by seamlessly connecting the battlespace and ensuring mission success,” McIntosh added. As the fleet expands, the F35 will continue to serve as a critical asset in modern air combat operations worldwide.