Lockheed Martin is exploring a major evolution of the F-35, potentially transforming it into a pilot-optional fighter jet with significant performance and technology enhancements, according to CEO Jim Taiclet. Speaking at Bernstein’s Strategic Decisions Conference, Taiclet revealed that the company could deliver such a capability in a “relatively modest time frame” by leveraging its work from sixth-generation fighter programs.
The envisioned upgrade, described as a “fifth-generation plus” version of the F-35, could include new stealth coatings, refinements to the jet’s shape, and integration of advanced autonomy software, positioning the F-35 closer to sixth-generation capabilities.
“We could make the F-35 pilot optional based on a lot of the development we’ve done,” Taiclet said, adding that within two to three years, Lockheed could significantly enhance the jet’s capabilities by transferring in-house NGAD technologies.
Taiclet had earlier hinted at these upgrades—likening them to a “Ferrari” or “NASCAR” boost—during an April earnings call, shortly after Boeing’s F-47 won the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) contract. Instead of challenging the decision, Lockheed opted to focus on delivering an enhanced F-35 offering 80% of sixth-gen capabilities at half the cost.
Among the potential upgrades being considered:
- Stealth enhancements using radar- and infrared-absorbing coatings
- Advanced electronic warfare systems
- Networking upgrades for superior battlefield integration
- Tweaks to the aircraft’s outer mold line, including engine inlets and nozzle flows, for performance gains
- Progressive integration of autonomy and AI-driven systems
However, Taiclet emphasized that these improvements would need to be phased in gradually, to avoid disrupting ongoing F-35 production.
Lockheed is also evaluating similar enhancements for the F-22 Raptor and aims to propose long-term sustainment and production deals for the F-35.
Interestingly, Taiclet made no mention of a two-engine version of the F-35, recently referenced by former President Donald Trump. Trump had spoken of a so-called “F-55”, a twin-engine super upgrade of the F-35, during a business roundtable in Qatar. However, experts—including former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall—have expressed skepticism, noting that a twin-engine F-35 would require major structural changes.
While no new F-35 sales were announced during Trump’s Middle East visit, Taiclet confirmed that Lockheed is in active discussions with Saudi Arabia, and possibly with Qatar and the UAE, about future acquisitions of fifth-generation aircraft.
“There’ll be multiple steps… but if we can work with Saudi, Qatar and UAE to bolster air superiority and integrated defense capabilities, it could open significant opportunities for us,” Taiclet concluded.
Lockheed’s evolving F-35 strategy highlights its focus on adaptability and long-term relevance, even as the global race for next-gen airpower accelerates.
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