The Pentagon has concluded a framework agreement with Lockheed Martin for at least 850 F-35 aircraft over the next ten years

The Pentagon announced Thursday that it had concluded a ten-year framework agreement with Lockheed Martin for the delivery of at least 850 F-35 stealth fighter jets, as part of a program to modernize the U.S. fleet. Implementation of the agreement depends on approval by the U.S. Congress and the allocation of the necessary funds.

In addition to the aircraft, the agreement includes spare parts, equipment to adapt them, and maintenance services for the entire F-35 fleet. The Pentagon says the deal aims to strengthen the military capabilities and defense industrial base of the United States.

In exchange for the U.S. administration’s long-term commitment, Lockheed Martin will invest at least $7 billion to improve the program’s production and logistics capabilities. The company estimates that it will be able to maintain a production rate of 156 aircraft per year.

The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole aircraft equipped with stealth technology and capable of carrying out air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The aircraft is used by the United States and several allied countries.