ARLINGTON, VA. — Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Department of War have announced a sweeping framework agreement covering the production and maintenance of F-35 Lightning II fighter jets over the next decade. The proposal includes 850 aircraft for the United States, along with spare parts, upgrades and international orders, maintaining an annual production rate of 156 jets. Pending congressional authorization and funding, the agreement is expected to reduce long-term costs, strengthen military readiness and improve supply chain efficiency. Lockheed Martin estimates the program will support 317,000 American jobs and generate approximately $79 billion in annual economic activity.

“This multiyear framework strengthens the way we can plan and invest in the F-35 enterprise,” said Jim Taiclet, Lockheed Martin’s chairman, president and chief executive officer. The company says predictable production schedules and bulk purchasing could save taxpayers billions of dollars while improving aircraft maintenance and operational readiness. More than 1,375 F-35 fighter jets are currently deployed worldwide, with the fleet surpassing one million flight hours. The proposed agreement would further support U.S. military capabilities and strengthen defense cooperation with allied nations.