The United States remains a global leader in fighter jet production, with major manufacturers like Boeing and Lockheed Martin at the forefront. In 2025, these companies are expected to produce over 300 fighter jets annually, continuing to meet both domestic and international demand despite the increasing complexity of modern aircraft.
As the U.S. military transitions to a predominantly fifth-generation fleet, it is phasing out older models while simultaneously ramping up production of advanced fighters. The F-35 Lightning II, Lockheed Martin’s flagship stealth aircraft, leads the charge with a significant number of orders from the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and allied nations. The F-35’s three variants—the A, B, and C models—enhance its production capabilities, making it a vital asset for air superiority.
Production Trends and Future Projections
The current monthly production figures for key models are impressive. Lockheed Martin delivers between 20 to 23 F-35s and 3.5 to 4 F-16 Fighting Falcons each month. Boeing contributes 1.5 to 2 F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and 1.5 to 2 F-15EX Eagle IIs. This brings the total monthly output to between 26.5 to 31 jets, translating to an annual total of approximately 318 to 372 aircraft.
Despite the impending retirement of the F/A-18 Super Hornet by the end of 2027, demand remains robust for other fighter models. The F-15EX has garnered attention for its advanced capabilities, and recent contracts have solidified its position in the U.S. arsenal.
Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Fighting Falcon continues to thrive, with over 140 orders from various countries, including Bahrain, Bulgaria, and Taiwan. As production ramps up, the company aims to exceed 30 aircraft annually, building on a backlog of 117 Block 70 planes.
Technological Advancements and Global Demand
The F-35 has been a game-changer for the U.S. military and its allies. With advanced stealth features and sensor capabilities, it represents a significant leap in air combat technology. Lockheed Martin reached a milestone in April 2025, delivering 23 jets in a single month, aiming to surpass its previous annual record of 156 F-35s.
The demand for the F-35 is not limited to the U.S. In addition to domestic orders, countries such as Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom are integrating the aircraft into their fleets, enhancing global security partnerships.
Meanwhile, Boeing’s F-15EX Eagle II is undergoing accelerated production, with 90 planes already ordered and a target to deliver two aircraft per month by the end of 2026. The jet features modern avionics and a heavy payload capacity, essential for addressing evolving threats.
The Pentagon is also investing in the next generation of air dominance with the F-47, a sixth-generation stealth fighter. This initiative reflects a strategic decision to focus resources on a single advanced platform rather than splitting them between multiple projects, ensuring the U.S. maintains its edge in air superiority.
As the U.S. continues to innovate in military aviation, the combination of established models and emerging technologies positions it as a formidable force in global air power. With a commitment to modernization, the production of fighter jets is not only a matter of national defense but also a significant driver of economic activity in the aerospace sector.