IAI producing more F-35 wing sets

TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Israel Aerospace Industries has been tapped by Lockheed Martin to produce 40 more wing sets for F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft.

The value of the contract was not disclosed but IAI is scheduled to produce more than 800 F-35 wing pairs over the next 10 to 15 years for a potential value of $2.5 billion.

"Lockheed Martin recognizes IAI's commitment to the F-35 program and understands the importance of the quality delivered by the IAI team," said Jeff Babione, Lockheed Martin F-35 program manager. "This order demonstrates our confidence in the continued performance and we look forward to continuing our healthy relationship long into the future."

IAI received its initial contract from Lockheed Martin for F-35 wing sets in 2014 and subsequently invested in a state-of-the-art automated F-35 wing production line. It is located at the production center at IAI's Lahav Division, which is experienced in manufacturing wings for F-16 and T-38 aircraft.

"The award reflects a strong vote of confidence in IAI's abilities and commitment to this partnership, part of the development of the most advanced fighter aircraft ever produced," said Joseph Weiss, IAI's president and chief executive officer. "We are extremely proud of this cooperation and believe it will continue to be strengthened in the future."