What Happened
Decade-Long Agreement Covers 850 Fighter Jets
Lockheed Martin has unveiled a decade-long framework agreement with the Department of War for the procurement and support of at least 850 F-35 Lightning II aircraft. The agreement covers production Lots 21-30, including initial spares, modification kits, and sustainment support. International customer orders will also be included, with production continuing at the current rate of 156 aircraft per year. The framework is intended to provide stability and predictability for manufacturers, operators, and suppliers, and is expected to support approximately 317,000 US jobs and generate around $79 billion in annual economic activity. This development was first reported by Unknown Source.