Why the US is delivering F-35s without radars: Inside the AN/APG-85 radar | TheBriefWire
Why the US is delivering F-35s without radars: Inside the AN/APG-85 radar
Published 27 June 2026 ยท world
The US military is accepting F-35 fighter jets without their advanced AN/APG-85 radar due to development delays. These aircraft, fitted with ballast, will be retrofitted
The US military is accepting F-35 fighter jets without their advanced AN/APG-85 radar due to development delays. These aircraft, fitted with ballast, will be retrofitted later. This unusual move by the Pentagon aims to maintain production momentum for the F-35's Block 4 modernization, which includes significant upgrades to sensors and capabilities. The new radar is crucial for future threat engagement.
Published: June 27, 2026 โข 11:19 AM IST ยท Updated: June 27, 2026 โข 11:32 AM ISTBy TheBriefWire Editorial Team
Key points
The US military is accepting F-35 fighter jets without their advanced AN/APG-85 radar due to development delays.
These aircraft, fitted with ballast, will be retrofitted later.
This unusual move by the Pentagon aims to maintain production momentum for the F-35's Block 4 modernization, which includes significant upgrades to sensors and capabilities.
The new radar is crucial for future threat engagement.