On May 5, 2017, the first F-35B Short Take-Off/Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft assembled outside the United States was unveiled at the Italian Final Assembly and Check Out (FACO) facility. This significant event showcased the robust partnership between the Italian Ministry of Defense, the United States and industry partners. Previously, F-35s had only been manufactured in Fort Worth, Texas. 

This first F-35B was designated "BL-1" and flew its maiden mission in October 2017 from the Cameri airfield located in the northwest region of Italy. The aircraft was subsequently delivered to the Italian Ministry of Defense in January 2018. 

The F-35 Lightning II, a fifth-generation fighter, replaced various legacy aircraft for multiple countries. Italian F-35As and Bs, for example, replaced the Panavia Tornado, AMX, and AV-8B aircraft. The F-35 program, which has marked several milestones, has since continued to be a symbol of international collaboration and advanced airpower for NATO and partner nations.