Critical F-35 upgrade deferred, 2024 production slashed by 27-50%

As we gaze into the future of the F-35 fifth-generation fighter, we discover that the expected upgrade package, referred to as Technology Refresh 3 [TR-3], continues to undergo delays. What was initially planned for a 2023 release has already been delayed by a year. This slowdown in implementing innovations poses a significant obstacle to progress.

Interestingly enough, the Pentagon maintains a firm stance; they refuse to accept delivery of F-35s that lack these enhancements. Consequently, the service entry for this new generation of fighters has been significantly delayed. Factors contributing to these delays are diverse – they range from issues with software integration and significant hold-ups in avionic component production to broader software challenges, Bulgarian Military reports.

Congressional frustration over these continual delays is no secret. This irritation was vividly illustrated when Representative Donald Norcross voiced his disenchantment during a recent House Armed Services subcommittee hearing. “Year after year, we meet in this very room, and each time, the issue remains unresolved. Anyone who looks at the situation can easily understand the source of our frustration,” he asserted.

On the flip side, Lockheed Martin has proposed an alternative to manage this crisis – delivering F-35s partially embedded with TR-3 upgrades. If all goes according to plan, these hybrid versions may take to the skies as early as August or September.

Customer concern

Concerns over delays in upgrades have been increasingly expressed by various clients. Notable examples include the Belgian Air Force, which, back in August 2023, rejected received fighters due to outdated software, and the US Marine Corps, which made their dissatisfaction quite loud and clear.

In a revelation that underscores the gravity of the problem, Lockheed Martin’s Chief Executive, Jim Taiclet, announced their anticipated delivery volumes for 2024 to hover between 75 and 110 F-35s. This figure only reflects 50 per cent-73 per cent of the approximately 150 aircraft that were initially expected. More worryingly, the production cuts in 2023, followed by this, could potentially make 2024 the year when the Chinese J-20 fifth-generation fighter surpasses the F-35 in terms of production numbers.

Delving into the specifics of the issues slowing down the progress of upgrading the F-35 to the TR-3 standard, Taiclet painted a vivid picture of the crux of the problem. “On the TR-3 front, we’ve encountered a considerable challenge due to the significant increase in the level of complexity. It’s a laborious process of running the new software through the fresh hardware, and then synchronizing it with the rest of the aircraft’s systems. It has ended up taking longer than our team initially predicted.” He admitted, “Despite our desire to speed this up, this is the timeline we are currently on.”