Danish firm expands its F-35 work

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EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Danish composites maker Terma A/S has increased its participation in the F-35 Lightning II manufacturing effort through an agreement with Northrop Grumman.

Northrop, a major partner in the Lockheed Martin team producing the fighter, said it has signed a new long-term agreement with Terma that carries a potential value of more than $97 million if follow-on options are exercised.

Under the agreement, Terma will produce 34 types of components for the aircraft. Among them: door, panel, skin assembly and straps through the year 2019.

"The LTA with Terma A/S further strengthens our relationship with Denmark, an F-35 partner country," said Michelle Scarpella, vice president of the F-35 program for Northrop Grumman.

"Under this agreement, we will continue to work collaboratively with Terma, striving for the highest quality and driving efficiencies so we are able to provide the warfighter with the world's most advanced strike fighter aircraft."

Northrop Grumman first worked with Terma in 2006 for F-35 hardware.

Northrop said the long-term agreement, in addition to the composite items, includes provisions for joint exploration of new technologies for manufacturing efficiency.

Northrop Grumman is producing the center fuselage of the F-35 as well as its radar and avionics systems. Last year it delivered 22 center fuselages to Lockheed and is expected to produce and deliver 32 center fuselages this year.