The average engine cost of $20.4 million was added to the $81.1 million airframe price agreed in December between the Defence Department and Lockheed Martin. Not all variants cost the same, but detailed breakdowns of the three versions remain undisclosed.
Lockheed Martin has explained that Lot 18 and later jets include capability upgrades compared to earlier versions, which contribute to the increased price. The F-35 Joint Program Office said it is “on track to definitize Lot 18-19 in summer 2025,” when more details will be confirmed in a combined award.
A Pratt & Whitney spokesperson emphasised the engine’s operational importance, telling Air and Space Force Magazine: “The combat-proven F135 engine delivers the power, safety, reliability, and low-observability to ensure operators can accomplish their most critical missions. The F135 is ultimately an investment in mission assurance, providing the warfighters of today and tomorrow the technological edge to fight and win.”
Source: Air and Space Forces Magazine.
