From the U.S. Government Accountability Office, www.gao.gov

Transcript for: F-35 JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER: Actions Needed to Address
Late Deliveries
 
Description: DOD's F-35 has unique capabilities that make it crucial to
U.S. national security. DOD awarded billions to 2 defense contractors to
build the aircraft and its engine. In 2024, aircraft deliveries were
late by an average of 238 days. To encourage timely delivery, among
other things, DOD paid the contractors hundreds of millions in
incentives over the last several years. Nonetheless, delivery time
frames continued to worsen--but DOD continued to pay incentives. DOD
plans to increase production until 2032, despite contractors' inability
to keep up with current engine and aircraft deliveries. Our
recommendations address these issues, and others.

Related GAO Works: GAO-25-107632, F-35 Joint Strike Fighter: Actions
Needed to Address Late Deliveries

Released: September 2025


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The F-35 plays a crucial role in U.S. national security.

DOD is upgrading the F-35's software and hardware.

These upgrades are $6 billion over budget and at least five years behind
schedule.

Although deliveries were late, contractors still received incentive
fees.

As the F-35 program continues, there are opportunities for improvement.

The program could benefit from adopting GAO's leading practices for
product development.

find out more @ GAO.gov

image credits: DVIDS
  
 
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For more info, check out our report GAO-25-107632 at: GAO.gov