In the United States, a unique project to create an F-35A Lightning II fighter jet assembled from components of two previously crashed aircraft has been completed. The initiative, unofficially named "Franken-bird", was implemented by the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base in Utah with the support of the F-35 Joint Program Office, Ogden Air Logistics Complex and Lockheed Martin.

The first of the donor aircraft crashed in 2014 due to an engine fire, the second in 2020 due to a landing gear failure during landing, which led to severe damage to the front fuselage. Both fighters were deemed unsalvageable and were destined for scrap.

As part of the project, specialists assembled a complete airframe, restored electrical wiring, hydraulic systems, avionics, and applied a special coating that reduces the aircraft's radar signature. Such operations to restore the F-35 had not been carried out before, so engineers had to develop special tools and methods to complete the tasks.

The assembly process took about a year and cost $6 million, significantly less than the $35 million-plus cost of a new F-80A. After successful ground testing, the aircraft was handed over to Lockheed Martin for flight testing. Once completed, the fighter is expected to join the 388th Fighter Wing.

However, experts note that such projects are associated with technical and logistical difficulties. It is necessary to take into account the compatibility of components, wear of parts and other factors affecting the safety and efficiency of the restored aircraft. Nevertheless, the successful experience of assembling the F-35A from parts of two damaged aircraft opens up new prospects in the field of repair and restoration of modern military equipment.