The F-35 fighter jet, the most advanced yet costly weapon in the US arsenal, faces rising costs, performance issues, and reliability concerns, as highlighted in a US Government Accountability Office (GAO) report. Despite plans to expand the fleet, availability rates have dropped, and sustainment costs have soared. Manufacturing delays and safety concerns persist, with multiple crashes raising alarms. As former President Donald Trump pushes for a deal with India, questions remain about the jet’s long-term affordability and effectiveness.
