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Deep & Emerging Tech·August 26, 2026·1 min read

Lockheed’s Pricey F-35 Sees 10% Cost Jump for Needed Upgrades

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A ~$51B, 10% cost increase on the F-35 driven by software, readiness, spares, and engine power is a reminder that complex systems’ real bill arrives in upgrades and sustainment. If you build long-lived platforms—defense or not—treat software modernization and parts logistics as first-class P&L lines, not afterthoughts.