F-35 Program Encounters USD2T Crisis Amid Drone Technology Surge
(MENAFN) The United States dramatically cuts its fiscal 2026 F-35 Lightning II procurement from 74 to 47 aircraft as mounting criticism over escalating expenses and questions about the fighter's future relevance against emerging drone technology intensify scrutiny.
The Department of Defense's proposed budget redirects funds from new aircraft purchases toward fleet modernization, enhanced sustainment capabilities, and improved readiness—persistent problem areas that have plagued the program throughout its development.
Pentagon officials plan to tackle critical logistical shortcomings while boosting operational availability rates across the existing F-35 fleet.
The revised defense spending blueprint also channels resources into multiple initiatives, including the Golden Dome missile defense architecture, the next-generation F-47 fighter program, expanded naval vessels, and advanced munitions systems.
Defense leadership maintains unwavering support for the F-35 initiative and its strategic importance in maintaining air dominance for US and allied nations, despite the significant order reduction.
'World's most expensive weapons program'
The F-35 faces mounting criticism despite its advanced technological capabilities, primarily centered on astronomical costs that burden both American taxpayers and international partners, triggering widespread social and political resistance.
Program lifecycle expenses—encompassing procurement, operations, and maintenance—reach approximately $2 trillion, with continued cost escalation becoming a central criticism target over successive years.
This financial burden has earned the F-35 the designation as "the world's most expensive weapons program."
Expected cost stabilization and reduction following initial production phases have failed to materialize, with price volatility during procurement cycles, unexpected payment demands, and related complications fueling skepticism among purchasing nations.
Excessive hourly operational and maintenance expenses continue straining partner countries' defense budgets, compounding affordability concerns.
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