Several reports have raised concerns about the latest versions of the F-35 fifth-generation fighter jet, suggesting that many of them are not yet combat-ready. The latest update, known as the Technology Refresh TR-3, includes a new onboard computer with a more powerful processor. However, this upgrade has led to malfunctions that disable complex combat functions. As a result, all F-35s delivered since July 2023—approximately 400 aircraft—lack the full capabilities needed for combat operations, according to specialist Bruno Etchenic. These include aircraft delivered to the United States and various international partners, such as the four F-35A jets Belgium received at the end of 2025. The TR-3 update was introduced in July 2023, but once installed, it caused the onboard software to crash, leading to a temporary halt in deliveries. Production continued, creating a backlog of aircraft that had to be stored. To address the issue, the Pentagon and Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, agreed to deliver aircraft with a truncated version of the TR-3 computer system, which includes basic flight systems but lacks the advanced combat capabilities. As of now, no fully combat-ready TR-3 version has been delivered, according to the latest report by the Department of Defense’s Office of Testing and Evaluation (DOT&E), published in March. Further complications have arisen with the radar system. Since 2025, some F-35s destined for the U.S. have been delivered without radar due to delays in producing the new APG-85 radar system. In the interim, ballast has been added to the front of the aircraft to maintain balance during flight. While only a few aircraft are currently affected, up to 100 F-35s may eventually be impacted, with the new radar not expected until at least April 2028. Launched in 1994, the F-35 program aimed to develop a versatile stealth fighter for the U.S. and its allies. Despite the first operational aircraft flying in 2015, the program has faced ongoing delays and technical challenges, with aviation specialists noting that the aircraft is still not fully completed over a decade later. In a notable incident, an American F-35 was detected, tracked, engaged, and hit by an Iranian missile. Though the pilot managed to land safely, the aircraft was later removed from service, highlighting the risks posed by the current limitations of the F-35 fleet.