Singapore Airshow 2022: Lockheed Martin targets higher F-35 production for 2022
Lockheed Martin has forecast annual production of at least 148 F-35 fighter jets. (Photo: USAF)
Lockheed Martin has said it expects to produce between 148 and 153 F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets in 2022, representing a small increase on the 142 aircraft manufactured in 2021.
Should the new annual target be met, overall production would exceed 900 units, reinforcing a dominant market position for Lockheed Martin which could also improve if new orders arrive from Greece, Germany and the Czech Republic.
A flood of orders has already arrived from Asia-Pacific customers including Australia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore, with Thailand also expressing interest.
‘We’re watching the US government decide how they're going to respond to that request
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
Focus on economy over capability highlights the cost imperative for CCA success
Striking the right balance between cost and capability is likely to become more crucial in the increasingly competitive collaborative combat aircraft market. Shephard’s special CCA market report examines where the opportunities lie for suppliers.
-
France and India secure long-term defence roadmap built on shared production
Expanded fighter jet and missile production, next-generation engine cooperation and helicopter assembly deals have all been struck between the two countries, signalling a strengthening bilateral partnership between France and India.
-
L3Harris begins work on South Korean AEW&C aircraft, eyes further international opportunities
The company remains upbeat about its Indo-Pacific and European prospects, with its AERIS X system onboard a Bombardier 6500 proving an attractive option for air forces’ growing AEW&C needs.
-
Saudi Arabia air report: The world’s fourth-largest UAV market seeks to strengthen domestic industry
With $9.18 billion in uncontracted programmes — including a potential multi-billion-dollar MQ-9B deal — Saudi Arabia’s UAV sector is poised for significant further growth and industrial expansion.
-
AI mission-autonomy software integration and partnerships see progress across CCA efforts
The successful integration of third-party mission autonomy in the US Air Force’s CCA programme and movement on Helsing’s Europa CA-1 timelines mark key milestones in the development of uncrewed aerial capabilities.