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

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Comparison of two legendary aircraft B777x vs B747 aircraft:Click here

Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

NASA, Lockheed Martin Reveal X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft:Click here

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.