Lockheed highlights F-35 cockpit

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REDONO BEACH, Calif., April 12 (UPI) -- A mobile demonstrator of the F-35 Lightning II's cockpit was shown to Northrop Grumman employees and government officials by Lockheed Martin.

Northrop Grumman is Lockheed's partner in developing and producing what will be the United States' most advanced fighter aircraft.

"We're pleased to demonstrate the capabilities of the F-35 Lightning II, the worlds' most advanced multi-role fighter aircraft, to our California supplier companies, elected officials and other local stakeholders," said Danny Conroy, director, U.S. Air Force F-35 Program, Lockheed Martin Washington Operations.

"These people are vital to the success of this program so it's important that they have an opportunity to experience, firsthand, the superior performance capabilities of this fifth-generation, multi-role fighter.

"For more than a decade, the U.S. and our allies have invested in the development of the F-35, which will serve as a cornerstone of global security for many years to come. Additionally, the F-35 program will significantly impact the U.S. economy, directly and indirectly, generating over 130,000 jobs."

Lockheed said the program has nearly 300 suppliers in California and that it is responsible, either directly or indirectly for more than 27,000 jobs.

During the demonstration at a Northrop Grumman facility, participants were updated on the F-35 program and given the opportunity to experience "flying" in the cockpit demonstrator.