The F-35 Lightning II Might Finally Be Getting Its New Radar

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The AN/APG-85 AESA radar system could enter service by mid-2028—ending a shameful period of aircraft being delivered with ballast in their noses instead of electronics.

The US Air Force expects one of the most important upgrades to the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet to come earlier than anticipated.  

According to the Air Force’s Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget, Northrop Grumman is expected to deliver the AN/APG-85 radar in April 2028—nearly a year earlier than had been initially anticipated, though still considerably late overall.

The AN/APG-85 Radar Is Coming Soon

The AN/APG-85 radar—set to replace the Lightning II’s existing AN/APG-81 radar—is expected some nine months earlier than previously planned.

“APG-85 just in time advance procurement for........

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