BAE Enters Production Phase of F-35 Lightning II Programme

(Farnborough, UK., July 14, 2008) -- BAE Systems has completed, on schedule, the first detailed machining component for the first production F-35 Lightning II aircraft, signalling a major milestone for the F-35 programme.

Produced from a solid piece of aluminium at BAE Systems' dedicated machining facility in Samlesbury, North West England, the component will form part of the first production aircraft's rear fuselage.

Mick Ord, F-35 Lightning II Managing Director said: "This is a significant milestone for the BAE Systems team. It marks our entry into the second major phase of the F-35 programme low rate initial production (LRIP), while we are still working in the system development and demonstration (SDD) stage of the programme.

"Working simultaneously on both major phases of SDD and LRIP in the programme provides many challenges for the team. But it is great to see that we continue to meet our commitments on schedule and to budget also."

Source : BAE Systems

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