Flying High for More Than 500,000 Hours

The F-35 fleet has surpassed 500,000 flight hours across global operations, demonstrating the program’s progress and continued maturity.

“The 500,000 F-35 flight hours milestone represents the steadfast dedication of the joint government, military, and industry teams to develop, produce and sustain the F-35,” said Bridget Lauderdale, vice president and general manager of the F-35 Lightning II program. “Our team continues to engineer cutting-edge and affordable aircraft capabilities for customers worldwide. Today, the F-35 fleet stands ready whenever and wherever the mission calls.”

With an unparalleled safety record, the F-35 is transforming the way our men and women in uniform conduct operations around the globe. As the most advanced node in a 21^st century security battlespace, the F-35 gives our pilots an advantage over any adversary, enabling them to execute their mission and come home safely.

Since the first flight of AA-1 in 2006, more than 780 F-35s have been delivered and are operating in nine nations. The F-35 is currently active at 25 bases and on nine ships across the globe, cementing it as versatile and capable in any environment. Its interoperability has made it an asset to the United States, allies and partner nations, and it will continue to perform with excellence for many flight hours to come.

Here’s a look back at some of the dynamic imagery captured over the years. Click here to download the imagery.