Several F-35 Parts FailingAugust 05, 2010
 Just When the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program finally seemed on track, another problem has flared up. Lockheed Martin said that a few parts in its most complex version of the F-35 are failing more often than expected, The New York Times reported. The problem is cropping up in the F-35 version designed to take off in short distances and land like a helicopter. Robert Stevens, Lockheed's CEO, said the flaws had slowed test flights on that model to 74 so far this year — 21 behind schedule. The test flights on the other two versions remain ahead of schedule. The problems include a cooling fan and a hydraulic device that opens airflow panels to provide the vertical thrust, the article reported. Stevens said that several other components — valves, switches and power systems — were also creating problems. The company is working with suppliers to fix the problems and Stevens expects no changes in the projected delivery date for the first planes next year. Defense Secretary Robert Gates recently shook up the F-35 program by relieving the general in charge because of delays and runaway costs. (DoD photo by Cherie Cullen/Released) |
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