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| F-35 Rendering. Photo: Lockheed Martin |
[Avionics Today 12-18-14] The Department of Defense (DOD) has assigned F-35 Regional Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul and Upgrade (MRO&U) capability for airframes and engines for the Asia-Pacific region. In the Pacific region, F-35 airframe MRO&U capability will be provided by Japan for the Northern Pacific and Australia for the Southern Pacific, with both capabilities required not later than early 2018. For heavy F-35 engine maintenance, the initial capability will be provided by Australia by early 2018, with Japan providing additional capability at least three to five years later.
“This is another example of the continuing expansion of global sustainment opportunities for the international F-35 community,” said Lt. Gen. Chris Bogdan, F-35 Program executive officer. “The F-35 international users will remain a vital part of the support structure of the program. Their continuing participation is critical to driving down cost and getting the best-value for the F-35 team and improving the strength of the global sustainment base for many years to come.”