Press Release
☷F 35 Program Achieves Milestone C and Full Rate Production
U.S. Department of Defense ( By Press Release office)
Mar 15,2024
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Earlier today , Dr . William A . LaPlante , the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment , gave the green light for the F - 35 Lightning II aircraft to enter full rate production . This decision came after a meeting with the Defense Acquisition Board and considering various test results , compliance with regulations , and future production plans . Dr . LaPlante , who chaired the board meeting , emphasized the stability and agility of the F - 35 program and its importance in promoting interoperability with allies . Lt . Gen . Mike Schmidt , the Director and Program Executive Officer of the F - 35 Joint Program Office , expressed pride in the team ' s accomplishment and highlighted the program ' s continuous improvement . This milestone was reached in September 2023 when successful simulations and trials were completed . Dr . Raymond D . O ' Toole , Jr . also provided analysis and assessment of the post - testing software . Hey , I ' m the Acting Director of Operational Test & Evaluation . We ' re working on addressing the findings and recommendations from DOT&E ' s report . One of our main priorities is improving the test infrastructure to support the development and readiness of upcoming Block 4 capabilities . We ' re also focused on timely deliveries of the next F - 35 iterations for integration into the JSE . Achieving MSC/FRP is crucial for validating the aircraft ' s capabilities for current and future partners of the F - 35 program . So far , we ' ve delivered over 990 F - 35 aircraft to various customers . The F - 35 is versatile , with capabilities for strategic attack , SEAD/DEAD , counter air operations , anti - surface warfare , reconnaissance , and close air support . Its stealth , sensor fusion , and interoperability make it a valuable asset for operating in contested environments and enhancing situational awareness .
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