Lockheed Martin is exploring new ways of expanding its F-35 fleet and is entering into new partnerships to enhance the fleet’s readiness and reduce sustainment costs. Recently, the company transitioned F-35 suppliers to long-term Performance Based Logistics (PBL) contracts and 12 Master Repair Agreements (MRA) to enhance repair capacity and speed.
Replacing annual contracts, the new multi-year PBLs allow companies to make long term investments and actions towards improved efficiency and cost reduction. At present, the PBLs cover several contracts with BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman (NOC) and Collins Elbit Vision Systems; and the MRAs cover contracts with 12 separate suppliers including companies like Honeywell (HON), General Electric (GE) and Eaton (ETN).
Not only are the initial multi-year contracts delivering positive results, the newer production aircraft are averaging more than 60% mission capable rates and is approaching the company’s 80% goal which amounts to reducing costs at $25,000 cost per flight hour by 2025. Further, the company has also reduced its operating costs per aircraft by 15% since 2015.
As more aircraft joins service, the company is speedily optimizing its resources and with advanced technology and superior range, F-35 is the most durable and connected aircraft in the world. Its ability to collect, analyse and share data is destined to become a powerful weapon in the battlespace.