Fact check: The F-35’s need an unlock code to operate. Only the US issues those codes externally. If the US doesn’t give you the access codes, you can’t turn the thing on. The only nation outside of the US that can generate their own codes for the F-35 is the UK, everyone else will need to find something else.

1. Summary of the results

While the analyses don't directly confirm or deny the specific claim about "unlock codes," they provide important context about the F-35's operational control system. The evidence suggests that the F-35 operates within a tightly controlled ecosystem managed by the United States ^[1]. The UK does indeed have a special relationship with the F-35 program, having been heavily involved in its development and producing approximately 15% of aircraft components ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several crucial pieces of context are missing from the original statement:

• The F-35 is described as an "aeronautical version of the latest iPhone" with its own software ecosystem, suggesting a more complex system than simple "unlock codes" ^[1]
• Countries purchasing F-35s must maintain decades-long relationships with the United States to keep the aircraft operational ^[2]
• There are ongoing negotiations regarding software development and delivery schedules ^[3]
• The UK has previously withheld $65m from Lockheed Martin due to software configuration issues, indicating that even close partners face technical challenges ^[4]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement oversimplifies a complex system:

• The use of the term "unlock codes" appears to be an oversimplification of what is actually a sophisticated software and hardware ecosystem ^[1]
• While the UK does have special privileges, the statement doesn't acknowledge that this is due to their significant contribution to the program's development and manufacturing ^[2]
• The statement implies a binary "on/off" system, while the sources suggest a more nuanced arrangement involving ongoing software updates, technical support, and system integration ^[3]

Beneficiaries of this narrative:

• Lockheed Martin and the US military-industrial complex benefit from emphasizing US control over the system
• The UK benefits from highlighting its special relationship with the program
• Other F-35 partner nations might benefit from downplaying the extent of US control to maintain domestic political support for F-35 purchases