US Air Force Seeks to Boost F-35 Production Amid Growing Demand
Lockheed Martin has stated that it will not increase the production rate of the F-35 beyond 156 units annually, citing a ‘smart’ rate established in cooperation with the Pentagon’s F-35 Joint Program Office. The US Air Force has requested a production rate of 100 F-35As by 2030, but Lockheed is working with customers to address concerns about capability, jobs, and economic benefits. The company is in close cooperation with the US government and Swiss customer on the disputed fixed-price deal, and is exploring ways to maintain a steady production rate.