US Air Force unveils operational 'Frankenjet' from two damaged F-35s

The U.S. Air Force has introduced a unique fighter jet nicknamed 'Frankenjet,' constructed from the remains of two damaged F-35s, demonstrating innovative engineering and cost-saving measures. The jet combines the nose of an F-35A that suffered a catastrophic engine failure in 2014 at Eglin Air Force Base with the rear of another F-35A that sustained damage during a landing incident in 2020 at Hill Air Force Base. This ambitious project took two and a half years and cost $11.7 million, significantly less than the estimated $75 million for two new jets, resulting in a savings of approximately $63 million for taxpayers. The F-35 Joint Program Office has confirmed that the Frankenjet is now fully operational and ready to support military operations. Lockheed Martin engineer Scott Taylor highlighted the historical significance of the project, as it marks the first successful assembly of this kind for the F-35 program. The jet's inaugural flight occurred in January 2025, after extensive restoration efforts.