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Pentagon scales back plans for F-35 upgrades

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Author: Stephen Losey
Date: September 3, 2025

Summary:

The Pentagon has scaled back its ambitious F-35 Block 4 modernization program in response to escalating costs, production delays, and supply chain issues, according to a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit. The report concludes that years of missed deadlines, cost overruns, and software instability have forced officials to focus only on upgrades that can realistically be delivered by 2031. Despite reduced scope, the F-35 remains central to U.S. and allied defense plans, though total program costs have now surpassed $485 billion in acquisition and more than $2 trillion in lifetime sustainment.

Main Points:

  • GAO Findings: The F-35 program continues to “overpromise and underdeliver,” prompting the Pentagon to pare back its Block 4 upgrade plan to control delays and costs.

  • Block 4 Overview: Originally planned for completion by 2026, the Block 4 package now targets delivery of limited capabilities by 2031 — a six-year delay.

  • Scope Reduction: Some upgrades dependent on an improved engine are postponed or canceled; remaining focus areas include better electronic warfare, weapons, and communications systems.

  • Cost Growth:

    • Block 4 upgrade cost ballooned from $10.6 billion to $16.5 billion (2021 estimate).

    • Overall F-35 acquisition costs rose from $442 billion (2022) to $485 billion (2023).

    • Lifetime program cost now exceeds $2 trillion.

  • Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3): Hardware/software foundation for Block 4 delayed to 2026 — three years late — due to software instability and processor integration issues.

  • Delivery Problems:

    • In 2024, all 110 F-35s were delivered late (average 238 days).

    • Lockheed stored dozens of jets during a 2023–2024 halt in deliveries while TR-3 issues were addressed.

  • Parts Shortages: Over 4,000 critical parts were delayed in 2025, doubling the usual shortage rate.

  • Engine Strain: Pratt & Whitney’s engines are under added stress due to power and cooling demands, adding $38 billion to lifecycle costs; none of the engines were delivered on time in 2023–2024.

  • Incentive Fees Issue: GAO criticized the Pentagon for allowing Lockheed to collect partial incentive payments despite chronic lateness.

  • Lockheed’s Response: The company reaffirmed its commitment to deliver 170–190 jets in 2025 and to continue incremental Block 4 rollout, calling the F-35 “the most affordable option to ensure dominance in the skies.”

➡️ FULL ARTICLE: https://www.defensenews.com/air/2025/09/03/pentagon-cuts-back-f-35-upgrades-to-slow-schedule-slips-auditors/

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