© Reuters. FILE PHOTO: A F-35 fighter jet taxis throughout a media day of NATO’s “Air Defender 23” army train at Spangdahlem U.S. Air Base close to the German-Belgian border in Spangdahlem, Germany June 14, 2023. REUTERS/Jana Rodenbusch/File Photograph
(Reuters) – The F-35 fighter jet program achieved full-rate manufacturing after the profitable completion of an important collection of checks final yr, the U.S. Division of Protection (DOD) mentioned on Tuesday.
Full-rate manufacturing, generally known as Milestone C, within the superior fighter jet program signifies the completion of operational testing, permitting the Pentagon’s acquisition chief to approve “full fee” manufacturing.
Reaching full-rate manufacturing may translate into elevated funding, both via progress funding or larger jet manufacturing numbers, benefiting Lockheed Martin (NYSE:), the F-35’s prime contractor.
“This resolution – backed by my colleagues within the Division -highlights to the Providers, F-35 Cooperative Program Companions, and International Navy Gross sales prospects that the F-35 is steady and agile, and that each one statutory and regulatory necessities have been appropriately addressed,” mentioned Underneath Secretary of Protection for Acquisition and Sustainment William A. LaPlante.
Nevertheless, a lingering challenge on the TR-3 tech refresh stays unresolved, which is probably a last barrier for Lockheed Martin from getting the complete quantity it expenses for every jet bought.
This system has already delivered greater than 990 F-35 jets to varied prospects, together with the U.S. army, worldwide companions, and overseas army gross sales.