Twenty countries have ordered F-35s: A look at the 5th generation warplane - analysis

1,230 F-35s now fly worldwide across 20 countries. The advanced 5th-gen jet, acting as a data sponge, defines NATO and allied air power, with potential Saudi inclusion pending.

A F-35 fighter jet moves past Indian Air Force's Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet parked on tarmac during the "Aero India 2025" air show at Yelahanka air base in Bengaluru, India.

(photo credit: REUTERS/Stringer)

BySETH J. FRANTZMAN

NOVEMBER 18, 2025 13:49

Twenty countries have ordered F-35s: A look at the 5th generation warplane - analysis

1,230 F-35s now fly worldwide across 20 countries. The advanced 5th-gen jet, acting as a data sponge, defines NATO and allied air power, with potential Saudi inclusion pending.

Hamas's Hamdan: Disarmament not part of negotiations

Trump admin's UN Gaza success reveals new diplomacy

Twenty countries have ordered F-35s: A look at the 5th generation warplane - analysis

1,230 F-35s now fly worldwide across 20 countries. The advanced 5th-gen jet, acting as a data sponge, defines NATO and allied air power, with potential Saudi inclusion pending.

See more on