Lockheed Martin Torn Between Demand And Production Capacity In F-35 Crisis

The F-35 Stealth Fighter: A Complex Web of Production and Demand

In recent years, the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter has been at the center of a high-demand storm, with numerous countries vying for access to this advanced piece of military hardware. As the demand for the F-35 continues to grow, the question on everyone’s mind is: can Lockheed hold steady on its production rate?

At the Dubai Airshow and Berlin Security Conference, Steve Sheehy, vice president of aeronautics strategy and business development at Lockheed Martin, provided some insight into the company’s plans. When asked if Lockheed plans to increase the production rate of the F-35, Sheehy responded with a simple “no.” However, this answer belies a complex web of factors that will influence the future of F-35 production.

One of the main drivers behind the high demand for the F-35 is its versatility and capabilities. The fighter is designed to perform a variety of tasks, from air-to-air combat to ground attack missions. Its advanced stealth technology makes it nearly invisible to radar systems, allowing it to penetrate even the most heavily defended airspace. These features have made the F-35 a sought-after platform for countries around the world.

The US Air Force has been at the forefront of F-35 adoption, with plans to produce 100 F-35As per year by fiscal 2030. However, this ambitious target requires a significant increase in manufacturing capacity. To achieve this goal, Lockheed would need to significantly ramp up production, potentially exceeding its current annual output of 40 jets.

However, scaling up production is not as simple as just increasing the number of aircraft built. The F-35’s supply chain is complex and relies on a network of suppliers from around the world. Adding new sources for critical components, such as the center fuselage, could potentially increase production rates. However, this would require significant investment and coordination with existing suppliers.

Sheehy acknowledged that increasing production rates poses challenges, including maintaining “economic stability” in the supply chain. The company has established a production rate of 156 units per year, which is considered “smart” by Sheehy, but not necessarily the maximum capacity. He cautioned against the dangers of “whipsaw supply,” where suppliers are forced to increase or decrease production rapidly due to changing demand.

The F-35’s manufacturing process has been criticized in the past for its complexity and reliance on specialized suppliers. The fighter’s center fuselage, in particular, has been identified as a potential bottleneck in increasing production rates. However, Sheehy stated that this is no longer the case, thanks to efforts by Lockheed and its partners.

“We want to keep our suppliers at a steady rate,” Sheehy emphasized. “It’s not just a single issue; it’s an entire supply chain we need to manage.”

To mitigate these challenges, Lockheed has been working closely with its customers to address their concerns about the F-35. Capability questions, such as the fighter’s performance in certain scenarios, and jobs questions, such as the impact on local economies, are among the issues being addressed.

Sheehy acknowledged that some countries have publicly wobbled on the platform, citing concerns over capability, cost, or economic benefits. However, he remained confident that Lockheed can address these concerns through open communication and transparency.

One country that has been reevaluating its planned acquisition of the F-35 is Switzerland. At the Berlin Security Conference, a Lockheed Martin executive for its Europe arm spoke to Breaking Defense about the current state of Swiss negotiations.

Switzerland’s decision to review its plans highlights the complexities involved in acquiring advanced military hardware like the F-35. The country’s decision will have significant implications for the global market and Lockheed’s production rates.

In conclusion, while Lockheed Martin has signaled that it can hold steady on its production rate of 156 units per year, there are complex factors at play that could influence this figure. The demand for the F-35 continues to grow, driven by its versatility and capabilities. However, scaling up production poses significant challenges, including maintaining economic stability in the supply chain.

As Lockheed and its customers navigate these complexities, it is clear that the future of F-35 production will be shaped by a delicate balance between capability, cost, and economic benefits. By addressing these concerns through open communication and transparency, Lockheed can ensure that the F-35 remains a sought-after platform for countries around the world.

In a rapidly changing security landscape, the F-35 plays a critical role in maintaining military superiority. As demand for this advanced fighter continues to grow, it is essential that all stakeholders – including Lockheed, its customers, and suppliers – work together to ensure that production rates meet the needs of those who rely on this vital piece of military hardware.

By doing so, we can ensure that the F-35 remains a cornerstone of modern military capabilities for years to come.