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

Pentagon suspends F-35 deliveries after discovering materials from China

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

When Ratan Tata was denied entry to the airfield at the Aero India show, he waited

During our visit to Aero India 2019, we had the unexpected opportunity to see Ratan Tata at the event, which was a thrilling moment for us. However, there was a surprising hiccup when the security staff didn’t allow him to enter due to a lack of a security pass.

Despite this, he remained calm and patiently waited for about 20 minutes until a member of the Tata team brought him the required pass, after which he calmly proceeded inside. It was a humbling sight, showcasing his composed demeanor even in such situations.

Ratan Tata ji is not only a renowned industrialist but also a trained pilot, holding a pilot’s license. In 2007, he became the first Indian civilian to fly the F-16 Falcon during the Aero India show in Bangalore—a proud moment for the nation.

His passion for aviation extended beyond flying, as he played a key role in shaping India’s aerospace industry. Under his leadership, Tata ventured into manufacturing and maintaining aerospace components while upholding its legacy of quality. Notably, Tata’s collaboration with Airbus to develop and manufacture the C295 aircraft is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.