Lockheed Martin Delivers 1,000th F-35 Center Wing Assembly

Lockheed Martin has achieved a significant milestone in its F-35 production program with the delivery of the 1,000th Center Wing Assembly (CWA) from its Marietta, Georgia facility. This core section forms approximately 25% of the jet’s fuselage and plays a crucial role in supporting the entire aircraft structure. It is where the wings are eventually attached during the final assembly process, which takes place in Fort Worth, Texas.

This delivery marks a moment of pride for the approximately 1,200 highly skilled workers at the Marietta site. Their work on the CWA reflects a long-standing legacy of advanced aircraft manufacturing, as the facility previously contributed to iconic platforms such as the F-22 Raptor. The CWA is a complex, high-precision component that integrates critical structural and systems elements of the stealth fighter. It must withstand extreme conditions while ensuring flight stability and survivability in combat.

The Marietta team’s dedication and expertise continue to be essential in meeting growing global demand for the F-35. Lockheed Martin also benefits from the support of 29 partner suppliers across Georgia, generating a sizable annual economic impact of approximately $671 million in the state.

According to Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program, “We are proud of our Marietta team for their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality F-35 Center Wing components. The work this team does is critical in delivering the F-35 and supporting the warfighter in their important missions.”

The F-35 remains one of the most advanced and combat-capable fighter aircraft in the world. It is now in service with 12 allied nations and continues to set new benchmarks in stealth, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare. With over one million flight hours and more than 600,000 sorties completed, the jet is proving its value across multiple theaters and mission types.

This 1,000th CWA delivery symbolizes not only production excellence but also the strategic importance of the F-35 program. As global security environments grow more complex, demand for fifth-generation capabilities continues to rise. Lockheed Martin’s ability to meet this demand—through reliable, high-volume, and high-quality manufacturing—is helping shape the future of air combat and international defense partnerships.