August 17, 2025

Fort Worth: A Hub for F-35 Manufacturing and Economic Growth

News Summary

Fort Worth is at the forefront of F-35 Lightning II production, serving as a significant driver for local jobs and economic growth. Home to numerous subcontractors, including small businesses, Fort Worth’s robust economy thrives on this pivotal military program. With the F-35’s impressive global sales and military significance, this innovative aircraft not only boosts the local economy but also fortifies military capability worldwide. Despite challenges, the future of the F-35 program in Texas appears bright, promising continued expansion and economic development.

Texas is experiencing significant economic growth and military advancement due to the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II program, recognized as the most advanced fighter jet globally. The final assembly of this cutting-edge aircraft takes place primarily in Fort Worth, Texas, where over 49,000 jobs are provided statewide through this program.

The F-35 program is supported by a robust network of approximately 1,900 high-tech subcontractors involved in its production. Notably, 1,000 of these subcontractors are small businesses that contribute indispensable components and services to the program. One such example is Gamma Aerospace, which is based in Mansfield and has been operational since 1971. The company manufactures critical parts for the F-35 and recently hosted local business leaders and politicians to showcase a cockpit demonstration of the aircraft. The president of Gamma Aerospace highlighted that each F-35 aircraft incorporates a product manufactured by their facility.

Nationally, the F-35 program is credited with supporting over 270,000 jobs and boasts an impressive estimated annual economic impact of $72 billion. The cost of each F-35 jet ranges between $80 million and $110 million, with more than 1,000 jets already delivered to 20 different countries, including the United States. This success attests to the aircraft’s proven capabilities, having surpassed 1 million flight hours globally.

The F-35 plays a critical role in current global military conflicts. Its deployment has been observed in key operations, such as Israel’s engagements against Hamas and missions associated with Iranian nuclear sites. However, the program has faced scrutiny; for instance, Tesla CEO Elon Musk referred to the F-35 as obsolete in light of the increasing prominence of drones in modern warfare. Additional concerns have arisen internationally, as evidenced by Spain canceling a multibillion-dollar F-35 order, while Switzerland and Portugal reconsider their commitments to purchasing the jet.

Despite these challenges, Lockheed Martin’s F-35 program is regarded as a vital economic engine in Texas, generating over $9.9 billion in annual revenue. Executives at Lockheed express confidence in the program’s durability even amid potential tariffs affecting production costs and supplies. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the company reported a $215 million increase in F-35 sales, bringing total sales to $18 billion. The company’s production targets remain ambitious, with expectations to maintain a production rate exceeding 150 F-35 aircraft annually.

Internationally, the F-35 continues to bolster military capabilities. Norway recently marked a milestone by receiving its 52nd F-35A, becoming the first partner nation to fulfill its order for the jet. This acquisition significantly enhances Norway’s military readiness and fortifies collaborative defense efforts within NATO.

The global supply chain supporting the F-35 program includes over 1,600 American companies that positively influence the U.S. economy, signifying the program’s extensive impact on both local and national levels. The forward-looking outlook for the F-35 program indicates potential for continued growth and innovation as nations recognize the aircraft’s strategic advantages in air defense.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.