Aerospace
Pentagon and Lockheed reach deal to build 375 F-35 fighter jets
According to sources, the US Department of Defense contracted with Lockheed Martin Corp to produce approximately 375 F-35 fighter jets over a three-year period. #F35 #USAF #Lockheedmartin #fighterjet
According to Reuters, a new deal has been formed between the US Defense Department and the Lockheed Martin F 35 fighter plane. The US defense plans to acquire up to 375 fighters.
According to a survey, there will be risks of price inflation because of the supply chain and the demand for raw materials as COVID gradually declines and business conditions in many nations return to normal. Due to the current market conditions, US military must place an urgent order to secure F35 aircraft production slots at a controlled cost.
William LaPlante, the Pentagon’s top weapons purchaser, said, “We are pleased to announce that the Department and Lockheed Martin struck a handshake agreement for the next F-35 lot procurement on a basis of 375 aircraft.”
When the F35A was first introduced, the cost of a single fighter jet was approximately $221 million. However, as more orders from different clients came in, production quantities increased gradually due to the higher ratio, and the cost of the aircraft rose to $79 million at the current count.
The F-35 is available in three different configurations: the A-model for use by the U.S. Air Force and American allies; the B-model, capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings; and the F-35C planes for landing on aircraft carriers.
According to reports, the transaction is worth $30 billion. Each aircraft might cost up to 80 million dollars.
In 2019, the Pentagon agreed to a three-year “block buy” for 478 F-35 fighter jets, allowing Lockheed to purchase more parts in bulk and cut costs by around 8%, to $34 billion, as opposed to negotiating annual contracts.
The F35 is the most technologically advanced fighter jet of the fifth generation, holding numerous records and technological advancements that are uncommon in fighter jets. One of the versions of this fighter jet has a vertical takeoff, which is a game-changer for the defense forces
Recent victories for the F-35 in jet fighter competitions include those with Finland, Japan, Switzerland, and Germany. The Czech Republic and Greece are potential clients. About 27% of Lockheed’s revenue comes from the F-35 aircraft programme.
Source : F35 – Lockheed martin
Aerospace
India is set to build a central command for the Air Traffic Control system, called ISHAN
India’s air traffic growth has led to increased responsibilities for air traffic control. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is considering centralizing air traffic control for aircraft, dividing the country into four regions. The goal is to consolidate India’s segmented airspace into a single entity to improve air traffic management (ATM) efficiency, safety, and smoothness.
Recently, the AAI invited expressions of interest to develop a detailed project report for the Indian Single Sky Harmonized Air Traffic Management (ISHAN) initiative in Nagpur. Under this plan, air traffic controllers in Nagpur would handle domestic flights flying above 25,000 feet, eliminating the need for coordination among controllers in different regions.
For domestic regional flights operating above 25,000 feet, control would shift to the central command in Nagpur. This consolidation aims to enhance airline operations, increase flight handling capacity, and reduce congestion and flight times for passengers.
Currently, the AAI provides ATM services over Indian airspace and adjoining oceanic areas, covering over 2.8 million square nautical miles. This airspace is divided into four flight information regions (FIRs) in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, along with a sub-FIR in Guwahati.
FIRs are responsible for providing air traffic services, including weather information, visibility, and search and rescue assistance. The proposed unification under the ISHAN initiative aligns with the projected growth of the aviation industry, which anticipates a doubling of domestic passenger traffic by 2030.
Aerospace
Does AirAsia show interest in Comac aircraft in the future?
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, operating as AirAsia Group, recently paid a visit to the facilities of COMAC on April 2, 2024, and was thoroughly impressed by what he witnessed.
C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders
COMAC, known for its homegrown aircraft, has launched two promising jets: the ARJ21 and the C919 aircraft. Both aircraft are gaining popularity in the Chinese market, with the C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders from various airlines.
Fernandes expressed his admiration for COMAC’s achievements in aircraft manufacturing, acknowledging the immense challenge it entails. His visit underscored the realization that AirAsia now has a viable third option when it comes to selecting aircraft for its fleet.
During his tour, Fernandes was delighted by the innovation and technology evident in COMAC’s aircraft production and the company’s commitment to long-term partnerships.
He noted that many Western companies have shifted away from prioritizing loyalty and customer service, opting instead for short-term gains and a narrow definition of success.
Last month, COMAC embarked on an international tour, showcasing demonstration flights to neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. Fernandes believes that the positive impression left by COMAC during his visit opens up new opportunities for collaboration.
Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements
The shared values of loyalty, customer service, and long-term vision align closely with AirAsia’s ethos, making collaboration with COMAC appealing. With a focus on innovation and excellence, both companies stand to benefit from a partnership grounded in trust and a shared commitment to success.
Indonesia and China have already collaborated in validating and maintaining the airworthiness of the ARJ21 aircraft, indicating a solid foundation for future partnerships.
In his statement, Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements and genuine desire for long-term partnership, highlighting the absence of ego and a genuine willingness to succeed together. He marveled at COMAC’s fully automated, AI-driven factory, a testament to their dedication to innovation and efficiency.
Fernandes criticized Western firms for prioritizing short-term gains over loyalty, customer service, and long-term strategy, emphasizing the importance of understanding customers’ needs and collaborating to achieve success.
Aerospace
Indigo will soon launch Air Taxi Service in India
InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent brand of IndiGo, is set to revolutionize travel in India with its upcoming air taxi service.
Scheduled for a potential launch in 2026, this innovative venture promises a seamless journey for passengers between two bustling hubs. Delhi and Gurgaon in Haryana. The forthcoming service is projected to revolutionize the daily commute, offering passengers a swift aerial journey covering the distance in a mere 7 minutes.
This remarkable efficiency contrasts starkly with the conventional 90-minute drive, underscoring the immense time-saving potential for commuters. The anticipated fare, ranging from Rs 2,000-3,000, makes this innovative mode of transport not only swift but also remarkably competitive in pricing.
At the heart of this ambitious endeavor lies a strategic partnership with Archer Aviation, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology. Under this collaboration, Archer will supply 200 state-of-the-art eVTOL aircraft, representing an investment of US$ 1 billion. These cutting-edge aircraft, capable of accommodating up to four passengers alongside the pilot, epitomize the future of sustainable air travel.
Powered by six battery packs, Archer’s eVTOL aircraft boast rapid charging capabilities, enabling a swift turnaround between flights. With a charging time of just 30-40 minutes, these eco-friendly aircraft ensure minimal downtime, maximizing operational efficiency.
Similar services are anticipated to be introduced by the joint venture in Bengaluru and Mumbai as well. Nevertheless, the service rollout period has not yet been made public by the company. Next year, it is anticipated to get its certification. Following this, the company will start the certification procedure with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).