Assembled from two previously damaged F-35s, the newly rebuilt aircraft takes to the skies for its maiden voyage.
Air Force's Hybrid F-35 Stealth Fighter Nears Completion
The U.S. Air Force is nearing the final stages of a groundbreaking project to merge two damaged F-35 jets into a single aircraft, a development referred to as the "Franken-bird." The hybrid fighter, on track for a projected return by late March, is undergoing tests at Lockheed Martin's assembly plant in Fort Worth, Texas.
Created from the remnants of two earlier F-35s, AF-27 and AF-211, the hybrid jet made its initial flight on January 16. The fighter is now receiving additional assessments at Lockheed Martin before resuming its combat role. The assembly line will also apply low-observable materials to the section behind the nose, previously coated only with anti-corrosion primer.
Once cleared, the aircraft, designated tail number -5269, will return to Hill Air Force Base and be operated by the 4th Fighter Squadron. The estimated $6 million project, providing a functional, fully capable jet with no loss in performance, is expected to be completed within eight weeks.
The ambitious endeavor marked a series of first-time tasks, including reinstalling landing gear, rewiring the aircraft, rebuilding the cockpit and avionics, and installing various components. The fusion involved custom tools, equipment, and "belly bands" made of composite material, providing extra structural support and reinforcing the aircraft's body after the new nose was installed.
The initiative's foundation was laid in January 2020, when the F-35 Joint Program Office approached Lockheed Martin for insights on repairing F-22s. Leveraging the learning from this project, the Air Force aims to establish a foundation for future salvage operations and develop expertise in aircraft reclamation.
However, it is worth noting that, as of the most recent public updates, the term "Franken-bird" is not officially recognized or reported in connection with any specific hybrid or prototype variant of the F-35 currently under production.
Regarding the broader F-35 program, Lockheed Martin is actively producing and upgrading jets, with a focus on delivering new F-35As equipped with TR-3 avionics and preparing for Block 4 upgrade hardware. The program faces some delays in integrating new sensor hardware, but data indicates that the first combat-capable Block 4 aircraft may become operational by the end of 2025. The Air Force continues to order new aircraft, with contracts for Lots 18 and 19 expected to be awarded by the end of June 2025, ensuring ongoing production and deliveries throughout the year.
The Air Force's ambitious project to create a hybrid F-35, nicknamed the "Franken-bird," is expected to be completed in eight weeks, with an estimated cost of $6 million. This aerospace industry endeavor involves the fusion of two damaged F-35 jets, AF-27 and AF-211, with the aircraft's new section receiving low-observable materials for improved stealth capabilities. Upon completion, this single aircraft, designated tail number -5269, will join the Air Force and operate under the 4th Fighter Squadron. Meanwhile, the traditional Air Force air force continues its production of new F-35 aircraft, focusing on delivering F-35As equipped with TR-3 avionics and preparing for Block 4 upgrades.
