Pentagon Eyes $12B Boost for F-35 Sustainment as Readiness Falls
The Pentagon may seek $12B through 2031 to expand F-35 spare‐parts supplies on top of $1.2T in sustainment costs for a 2,470-jet fleet. Marine F-35C mission capable rate has slipped to 64.2% and full mission capable to 22%, while the Air Force’s full mission capable rate is 28.5%.
1. Pentagon Sustainment Funding Proposal
The Pentagon may seek an additional $12B through 2031 to expand spare‐parts supplies supporting the global F-35 fleet, responding to intensified operations in the Middle East and sustainment cost overruns.
2. F-35 Program Cost Structure
Sustainment costs for the planned 2,470-jet fleet already stand at roughly $1.2T, separate from the $485B development and production phase led by Lockheed Martin, underscoring long-term financial commitments.
3. Declining Readiness Rates
Newly released data show Marine Corps F-35C mission capable rates fell to 64.2% (full mission capable at 22%), while the Air Force’s full mission capable rate is 28.5%, both well below target thresholds of 85% and 80%.
4. Implications for Lockheed Martin
The funding boost could increase spare‐parts procurement contracts for Lockheed Martin, potentially bolstering revenues, while readiness challenges may pressure the company to streamline logistics and maintenance efficiency.