US Air Force's 'Franken-bird' takes flight

US Air Force's 'Franken-bird' takes flight

Based at Hill Air Force Base, the 388th Fighter Wing undertook the ambitious task of merging two damaged F-35A jets into a single fully operational aircraft. The rebuild cost $6 million and will put an $82 million aircraft back into service. The project showcased USAF maintenance personnel's expertise and commitment to enhancing the fleet's performance. This first-of-its-kind aircraft, affectionately dubbed the "Franken-bird," made its inaugural…

The "Franken-Bird": A One-of-a-Kind F-35 Returns to Combat

A unique F-35 stealth fighter, built from two wrecked jets, is set to make an unprecedented return to the US Air Force’s operational fleet. Dubbed the “Franken-bird,” this salvaged jet was restored through a collaboration between airmen from the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO), and Lockheed Martin. YouTube / Straight Arrow News The Birth of a “Franken-Bird” The restoration began in January 2020, wit…