Lockheed Martin deliberates over F-35 2022 production rate
A USMC F-35C Lightning II lands onboard USS Abraham Lincoln. (Photo: USMC)
Lockheed Martin has told Shephard it is currently determining how many F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters will be produced in 2022, following a company announcement that it produced 142 of the aircraft in 2021.
The 2021 figure bettered a target of 139 jets the manufacturer had set itself, in a timely boost for production after a relatively disappointing 2020 that saw COVID-19 complications lead to 120 aircraft deliveries - some way short of an original company target of 141 units.
‘We are determining the 2022 delivery target at this time and will share when decided,’ said a Lockheed Martin
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
Growing a digital backbone: an essential capability for the multi-domain battlespace
Future operational superiority will be defined by the ability to connect systems, data and personnel into a wider network. For armed forces, this creates the need for a digital backbone that integrates and enhances sensors and effectors of all kinds.
-
Estonia opts for smart, adaptable and cooperative solutions in the face of Russian threat
Estonian-made equipment is being put through the toughest of evaluations in the hands of Ukrainian soldiers resisting the full-scale Russian invasion which began in 2022. The country has long seen the threat and is continuing to adapt for the future.
-
Estonia boosting defence industry with lessons from Ukraine, says country’s economic minister
Estonia is looking to boost its local defence industry with directed funding, industry parks, support through international orders for equipment and rapid prototyping.
-
UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens
The UK has recently deployed a Type 45 destroyer to Cyprus and has bolstered its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks with supporting air power to protect neighbouring countries’ air defences.
-
White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production
Intended to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran, efforts to increase the production of weapons and ammunition could expose long-standing weaknesses in the US defence industrial base.
-
India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict
The latest escalation between Iran and Israel could shape New Delhi’s next-generation shield as India deepens cooperation with Israel on missile defence and drone production.