Aurora, Colorado – Lockheed Martin’s vice president and general manager of the F-35 program, Chauncey McIntosh, announced significant updates to the F-35 during the Air and Space Forces Association’s AFA Warfare Symposium.

**Upcoming Features:**
This summer, Lockheed Martin intends to introduce early Block 4 capabilities by rolling out an update to the F-35’s Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) software. The software upgrade aims to enhance the aircraft’s performance, bringing it closer to combat readiness. McIntosh stated that warfighters will experience increased stability with the new software.

**TR-3 and Block 4 Enhancements:**
The TR-3 update includes improvements to the F-35’s computer memory, processing power, and display systems, facilitating further upgrades under Block 4. Block 4 is expected to enhance sensor capabilities, improve sensor fusion, and expand the types of weapons the jet can carry.

**Confidential Upgrades:**
While McIntosh hinted at exciting updates in Block 4, he did not disclose specific details, citing confidentiality. He referenced past capabilities such as the automatic ground collision avoidance system (auto-GCAS), implemented in 2019, as a significant advancement.

**Delivery Challenges:**
The rollout of TR-3 was delayed due to persistent software and hardware issues, leading to a year-long halt in deliveries of new F-35s. The U.S. government resumed deliveries in July 2024 with an interim version of TR-3. However, the aircraft still lack combat capability, with the government withholding funds until certification is achieved.

**Projected Timelines:**
The F-35 Joint Program Office plans for TR-3 jets to reach combat capability by the end of 2025. However, some reports suggest delays could extend this to early 2026. The decision on combat readiness will ultimately rest with military services and international partners, as McIntosh indicated uncertainty regarding full combat capability by year-end.

**Production Numbers:**
Lockheed Martin anticipates delivering between 170 and 190 F-35s in 2025, an increase from approximately 110 delivered in 2024, as they work to clear backlogs caused by TR-3 delays.

**Future Contracts and Pricing:**
McIntosh also mentioned that Lockheed and the government aim to finalize terms for the next F-35 contract, Lot 18, in the second quarter of 2025. Despite rising costs, especially for materials like steel due to inflation, the company is managing to keep the F-35 pricing stable. McIntosh noted the company’s strategies for mitigating tariff impacts while sourcing materials.

**Author Information:**
This information is reported by Stephen Losey, an air warfare journalist for Defense News, with a background covering military operations and personnel issues.