BAE Systems Press Release
BAE Systems has supplied the 1,000th aft fuselage to Lockheed Martin for the F-35, an advanced and highly capable fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Over 1,500 employees at BAE Systems’ facilities in Samlesbury, Lancashire, are responsible for manufacturing the aft fuselage for every F-35 in service worldwide. The initial fuselage was delivered to Lockheed Martin in 2005. During the commemorative event marking the 1,000th delivery, Cliff Robson, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems Air, remarked, “This is a significant milestone for all those involved in the program and a testament to the highly skilled workforce we have in the North West of England.
Our contribution to the F-35 program exemplifies how we make a substantial impact on the local and national UK economy while delivering critical capabilities for national security.” Bridget Lauderdale, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin, stated, “The F-35 program drives economic growth and prosperity for the UK, injecting approximately £41 billion* into the UK economy and supporting over 20,000 jobs in the UK supply chain, many of which are located in the North West.
With a supply chain of over 500 companies in the UK, we are proud of our partnership with BAE Systems in delivering the world’s most advanced aircraft to the UK and 17 other allied nations.” BAE Systems has been involved in the F-35 program since its inception and plays crucial roles in the development, manufacturing, and sustainment of the aircraft, which is utilized by the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and air forces worldwide. The F-35 program has a global order for over 3,000 aircraft among its 17 customers.
Work on the program will continue at BAE Systems’ advanced manufacturing hub in Samlesbury for many years to come. Susan Addison, Senior Vice President for US Programs at BAE Systems Air, emphasized, “This milestone is significant for our business and showcases the expertise and dedication of our personnel in delivering for the F-35 program.
Our current roles are built upon a world-class manufacturing heritage and industrial knowledge in the UK, which has been cultivated through decades of experience in cutting-edge combat air programs. We take pride in our contributions to our customers and the air forces that help safeguard our security.”