Block 4 Capabilities Sharpen the F-35’s Edge

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Block 4 Capabilities Sharpen the F-35’s Edge
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Block 4 Capabilities Sharpen the F-35’s Edge


Block 4 upgrades are bringing quantum leaps in capability to the world’s most advanced, survivable and connected fighter. 

Block 4 modernization – over 75 major upgrades for all three F-35 variants – is the most significant evolution of F-35 capabilities to date, including increased missile capacity, advanced electronic warfare capabilities and improved target recognition.

Block 4 Basics

  • Block 4 upgrades provide the most significant evolution of capabilities to date for the F-35, including increased missile-carriage capacity, added advanced non-kinetic electronic warfare capabilities and improved target recognition. 
  • Tech Refresh-3 (TR-3), which enables Block 4, introduces open mission systems architecture, a new integrated core processor with greater computing power, an enhanced panoramic cockpit display, a larger memory unit and other classified capabilities. 

“Block 4 upgrades add new and enhanced capabilities to ensure our platform remains relevant against rapidly evolving threats,” said Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt, F-35 Program Executive Officer.

“Much like a new mobile cell phone or personal computer, TR-3 will host new Block 4 capabilities and applications with significantly more computing power and memory than the legacy infrastructure.”

Better, Together

The growing global fleet of F-35s is strengthening global security and bolstering partnerships with allies around the world.

Block 4 capability upgrades benefit F-35s across all variants and nations in the F-35 program – allied deterrence in action across Europe, the Indo-Pacific and everywhere in between. 

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Beaux Hebert