The most expensive fighter jet in history has become $26bn more expensive in a year - the cost of the F-35 Lightning II programme has reached $438bn

The programme of the fifth-generation fighter jet F-35 Lightning II has again increased in price. This is stated in the report of the US Department of Defence.

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Over the year, the cost of the F-35 Lightning II programme increased by $26 billion and now amounts to $438 billion. Because of the constant growth, the price increase of 6.5% is no longer perceived as something out of the ordinary.

Lockheed Martin was awarded the contract in 2001. 22 years ago, the F-35 Lightning II programme was valued at $233 billion. Since then, the cost has almost doubled and this is not the limit. It is estimated that $1.7 trillion will be spent over the life cycle to produce, support, modernise and maintain the fighter fleet.

The cost figures discussed in the new report were obtained after accounting for inflation. Also taken into account are adjustments to the production plans of the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps. In the new estimate, the number of aircraft remains unchanged: 2,456 production models for the U.S. and 14 experimental fighters.

The $26bn cost increase is in line with NASA's budget request and the aid allocated to Ukraine under the USAI (Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative) programme. The inflation-adjusted cost of the F-35 Lightning II has also increased. If last year it was estimated at $166 million, now it is $179 million.

Source: Stars & Stripes