Key points:
- The F-35 fighter jet program’s lifetime cost is estimated to exceed $2 trillion, up from a 2018 estimate of $1.7 trillion.
- Sustainment costs increased by 44% to $1.58 trillion over the program’s lifetime.
- The Pentagon extended the projected life of the plane to 2088.
- In 2023, the average F-35A was only mission capable about 52% of the time, falling short of the 90% target.
- Engine design flaws causing overheating contribute to maintenance costs and hinder pilot training.
- Efforts to fix engine issues have contributed to rising costs.
Potential implication:
- The F-35 program’s escalating costs and performance issues raise concerns about its effectiveness and value for taxpayers.
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