Pistorius receives first F-35A jet for the Bundeswehr in Texas

Defense Minister in the USA: Pistorius Takes Delivery of First F-35A Jet

In Texas, Federal Defense Minister Pistorius accepted the first of 35 F-35A combat jets. The aircraft are difficult for enemy radar to detect. Pistorius spoke of a "new era for the Air Force."

Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) has taken delivery of the first F-35A combat jet for the German Air Force in the US state of Texas.

Following the handover at the company's headquarters in Fort Worth, defense contractor Lockheed Martin said this was a "milestone for Germany" as well as for NATO as a whole. Pistorius reportedly spoke of a "new era for the Air Force."

The Bundeswehr has ordered a total of 35 F-35A jets from Lockheed Martin.

"The new F-35A combat jet is the world's most advanced fighter aircraft," Pistorius said according to the statement. It is distinguished, among other things, by its stealth capabilities and its exceptionally powerful sensor technology.

"The F-35A can collect large amounts of data and quickly compile them into a complete operational picture," Pistorius said in an earlier statement. Cooperation with 19 other nations opens up many opportunities in training, exercises and deployment "and makes us stronger together."

Difficult to Detect by Radar

The procurement of a total of 35 F-35A jets for ten billion euros was approved by the Bundestag's budget committee in December 2022.

The aircraft is intended to replace the aging Tornado fleet and then make an important contribution to deterrence. It is being purchased primarily for Germany's so-called nuclear sharing — a NATO deterrence concept in which allies have access to US nuclear bombs. Due to a special shape and exterior coating, the aircraft is difficult for enemy radar to detect.

Stationed in Rhineland-Palatinate

The first eight F-35A combat jets for the German Air Force will initially remain in the United States, where German pilots and technicians will be trained on them. Starting in 2027, the first aircraft are to be stationed at Büchel Air Base in the Eifel region of Rhineland-Palatinate.

At the start of his trip, Pistorius signed a defense agreement with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth near Washington on Tuesday. Pistorius's visit also takes place against the backdrop of the review of US troop presence in Europe, which Hegseth announced in June.