The executive search team met with a number of candidates and selected Sites, the executive director of the Southwest Valley Regional YMCA. Sites will assume his new job on Sept. 11.

“Ron’s connections to the West Valley communities, his recent experience as an honorary commander at Luke and his volunteer efforts with Fighter Country make him an excellent choice for our organization at this time,” said Charley Freericks, the organization’s board chairman. “We are looking forward to a seamless transition as our organization is hard at work for Luke Air Force Base’s families and dedicated to the F-35 campaign for all of Arizona.”

Fighter Country is co-leading a statewide effort to land the F-35 jet at the Glendale military installation. The Air Force has picked Luke as a preferred site to train pilots on the next generation of jets but the final decision rests with results of an environmental-impact report.

Yamamori will leave the organization Aug. 31 and assume his new role as manager of Arizona Public Service’s community relations group.

From: The Arizona Republic

1. Executive Director & CEO – Steve Yamamori
2. Fighter Country Partnership CEO boosts F-35 mission during SCHOA meeting
3. Senator John McCain Honored by Fighter Country

1. Amazing F-35 Lightning II Fifth-Generation Fighter Cockpit

The 309th Aircraft Maintenance Unit has added five F-16s from Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., to its inventory of 27 aircraft.

“Right now they look like blueberries with the painting scheme of an aggressor aircraft,” said 1st Lt. Jennifer Rogers, 309th AMU officer-in-charge. “The blue camouflaged pattern helps pilots in training quickly identify the plane as an adversary, or aggressor, in the air.”

The jets transferred to Arizona as part of an ongoing realignment of aircraft Air Force-wide and are the same F-16 model currently in the 56th Fighter Wing inventory.

Master Sgt. Brian Litman, 310th AMU lead production superintendent, led the transfer team that took two weeks to receive the aircraft from Nellis. Sergeant Litman and team completed a flawless transition, according to Lieutenant Rogers.

The five Nellis aircraft integrated into the 309th AMU fleet. The 309th will transfer two of its jets to the 308th AMU and two to the 310th AMU to even out the number of aircraft owned by the three AMUs in the 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

“What we’re doing right now is putting our tailflashes on them,” Lieutenant Rogers said. “Since they’re flown by Luke, we’re required to change the tailflash to the LF for Luke Field.”

Three or four sheet metal Airmen from the 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Fabrication Flight take three days to complete the job.

“They want to fly the aircraft immediately, so we’re just replacing the letters for the base, so they can fly as-is,” said 2nd Lt. Holly Gramkow, 56th EMS Fabrication Flight commander. “Starting Monday they’ll fully repaint the five aircraft with the gray Luke scheme.”

The repainting from the blue camouflage to gray is a five-day process.

Airmen and Defense Department civilians in the corrosion control facility, called the paint barn, start with masking and sanding, and continue with priming each jet. That’s followed with applying a top coat of dark and light gray paint, then finish with the application of stenciled NATO markings and decals to fully identify the aircraft.

Repainting costs $10,640 per jet, including labor expenses.

However, to get the Nellis F-16s into the air as soon as possible the corrosion control Airmen had to be creative.

“We don’t have the blue paint they use at Nellis, so they blended the gray into the existing blue paint to keep the integrity of the painting scheme,” Lieutenant Gramkow said.

Lieutenant Rogers anticipates repainting of the F-16s to be completed by the end of October.

Courtesy of 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1. Luke AFB Airmen invents study tool
2. Luke Air Force Base’s own Capt. Nicholas Holmes will fly as Thunderbird No. 4.
3. MSgt. Manuel Gonzalez, 756th AMS to join the USAF Thunderbirds

1. Pentagon Aggressively Reviewing F-35 Joint Strike Fighter
2. F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program will be delayed by about one year
3. F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program revitalized by Sec. Robert Gates

For a complete description of each item, please download a PDF.

1. 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration
2. Event Calendar
3. 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration

1. John McCain confident Luke Air Force Base will receive the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter
2. Luke AFB 2009 Air Show Video
3. F-16 B-Course Class 08-FBC Graduation Video

Valley leaders reacted last week with excitement to an announcement by Sen. John McCain that the Department of Air Force has selected Luke Air Force Base as its preferred training base for stationing of the F-35 Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter).

“The Air Force has recognized that the unparalleled capabilities inherent to Arizona – from the Barry M. Goldwater Range, to great flying weather, and strong support from state and local governments and communities, serve to provide the best environment and the finest quality of life for our military personnel training in the Air Force’s next generation fighter,” McCain said. “In return, Luke AFB offers the West Valley and the state of Arizona a strong economic engine, contributing more than 8,000 jobs and $2.17 billion annually to the state’s economy.”

With the decision, Luke is now poised to transition from its current F-16 training mission to become the Air Force’s “school house,” subject to the completion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process that is currently underway.

Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs said she was happy and relieved.

“Obviously, they did the right thing for the Air Force, national defense, the state of Arizona and the West Valley,” Scruggs said. “This represents a major milestone and the most critical stage in the F-35 site-selection process. Although we realize there is more work ahead of us, we are extremely grateful to our state’s congressional delegation, the Arizona Legislature, Gov. Jan Brewer, Attorney General Terry Goddard and citizens and businesses for working closely with us to champion and support the F-35 coming to Luke Air Force Base through our Luke Forward campaign.”

The campaign was developed to send a clear, strong message to the Department of Defense that Arizona supports Luke AFB continuing to serve as one of the country’s premier fighter pilot training facilities and to raise awareness of the critical role Luke plays in our national defense and state’s economy.”

Brewer called the selection a testament to Arizona’s great team effort.

“Having Luke selected as the F-35 training center was personal for me. Luke is in my back yard, and I was a founding member of Luke’s Fighter Country Partnership,” said Brewer, who is a resident of Glendale. “In a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley before the selection, and in leading a delegation of Arizona officials to meetings at the Pentagon, I noted Luke is the perfect location for this advanced fighter aircraft given the fact that Arizona has state statutes in place to manage growth around our military installations that protect their missions. I reminded him of Luke’s unique assets – including its proximity to the 2.7-million acre Barry M. Goldwater Range, key to air-to-ground combat training, along with 57,000 cubic miles of airspace overhead where pilots practice air-to-air maneuvers and engage targets on the ground.”

Fighter Country Partnership (FCP) Chairman Charley Freericks, who is co-chairing the Luke Forward Campaign with Scruggs, credits community support for the decision.

“Local community support of military bases is very important back in Washington, and we know the tremendous Valley and statewide support for Luke Air Force Base really helped us,” said Freericks, a senior vice president at DMB Associates. “We reached literally tens of thousands of Arizonans through our citizen and business outreach initiatives, and community support for Luke AFB was overwhelming. There is no question that this strong level of support was a significant factor in the Air Force’s decision to site F-35 at Luke.”

Peoria Mayor Bob Barrett called Luke AFB a real economic driver in the West Valley.

“The F-35 mission ensures Luke’s viability for the next 40 years,” Barrett said. “This is the best news we could have hoped for at this point. The City of Peoria will continue to strongly support the mission and Luke AFB throughout this process.”

The announcement that Luke was a preferred base was made prior to the Air Force’s draft F-35 basing EIS document, which is anticipated to be published in the next 30 days.

The Air Force is required to conduct an environmental assessment of each potential F-35 site before making its final basing decision.

The federally mandated assessment, which is referred to as the EIS process, allows individual citizens and communities around candidate bases to provide input during the formal evaluation of each base.

The Draft EIS will serve as the Air Force’s notice of intent to proceed. Once the Draft EIS is released, in which Luke will be identified as the Air Force’s preferred site, public hearings will be held later this year.

Once the public hearings are held and the comment period concludes, the Air Force will release its final EIS document that will provide responses to comments received from the public.

After the Final EIS document is published, there will be an additional 30-day public review period. After reviewing comments and after considering any environmental impacts, the Air Force will make its final decision.

It is anticipated the Air Force’s final “Record Decision” which will conclude the environmental impact process, will be made in early 2011.

Reach the reporter at ejackman@star-times.com, or 623-847-4615.

1. LUKE AFB SELECTED AS PREFERRED LOCATION FOR F-35 PILOT TRAINING CENTER
2. Major F-35 training mission criteria requirement met by Luke Air Force Base
3. Surpise Mayor Truitt Supports The F-35 Training Mission at Luke Air Force Base

And there’s no better time for good news from Washington.

The Air Force announced Thursday that Luke, at this point in the military’s analysis, is the optimum training location for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The F-35 replaces the aging F-16, for which Luke has been the premier training site in the world.

This is a major step in securing Luke’s future. Landing the F-35 is expected to have a positive impact for decades. In the short term, the F-35 could initially bring in as much as $125 million in construction money to ready the base for the aircraft.

Throughout its 69-year history, Luke has played a vital role in the nation’s defense and in Arizona’s development. The base has made a major imprint on the Valley’s growth and has a $2.2 billion annual effect on the state economy.

Its presence is well-known and treasured, which is why Arizona’s political and business leaders and other Luke supporters waged an impressive campaign to tout the base’s virtues to the Defense Department.

Luke was on a short list for the F-35 with training bases in Idaho, Florida and New Mexico. Now Luke is no longer a contender for the new fighter jet; it is the training mission location to beat.

Barring an unexpected adverse finding during an upcoming environmental impact study, Luke should get final approval for the F-35 before next summer.

In a bright future, Luke remains an important part of Arizona’s economy and the nation’s defense system.

From the Arizona Republic Opinions on Aug. 4, 2010 – Read more

1. Understanding the real dollar impact of Luke and other military operations in Arizona
2. Third F-35 Lightning II short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) stealth fighter lands
3. Marana Town Council announces its support for F-35 training in Tucson

Post credit: Gizmodo

1. Understanding the real dollar impact of Luke and other military operations in Arizona
2. The Impact of Luke and Other Military Operations

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• TROON: 40 Troon Cards (valued at $250 each-The Troon Card (aka the AZ Foursome Card) gives the cardholder plus up to 3 guests green fee discounts of about 50% at each of Troon’s 15 Arizona daily fee golf courses.
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To learn more about the 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration click here.

1. 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration
2. 9-11 Patriot Day Giveaway
3. 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration

With today’s decision by the Air Force, Luke is poised to transition from its current F-16 training mission to become the Air Force’s F-35 “school house,” subject to completion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process that is currently underway.

“Today’s announcement is great news for our region and our state and represents a major milestone and the most critical stage in the F-35 site selection process,” said Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs.

“Although we realize there is more work ahead of us, we are extremely grateful to our state’s congressional delegation, the Arizona Legislature, Governor Jan Brewer, Attorney General Terry Goddard, and citizens and businesses for working closely with us to champion and support the F-35 coming to Luke Air Force Base through our Luke Forward campaign,” Scruggs said.

The campaign was developed locally to send a clear, strong message to the Department of Defense that Arizona supports Luke Air Force Base continuing to serve as one of the country’s premier fighter pilot training facilities and to raise awareness of the critical role Luke plays in our national defense and the state’s economy.

The campaign was created by the West Valley Partners and Fighter Country Partnership.  The West Valley Partners include Avondale, Buckeye, Glendale, Gila Bend, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Maricopa County, Peoria, Phoenix, Surprise, Tolleson, Wickenburg and Youngtown.

Gov. Brewer said the Air Force’s decision is, in part, the result of all levels of local and state governments, as well as the private sector, working in partnership on a common vision.

“We all know that Luke is the ideal location for this next generation fighter, but I also believe that today’s decision demonstrates Arizona’s ability to roll up our sleeves and work together for the betterment of our state,” she said.

“It’s critical that we continue to do all we can to preserve current and future missions at our military installations in order to keep this very important industry viable in our state.”

Luke Air Force Base and other military installations in the state collectively represent one of the largest industries in Arizona and generate more than $9 billion annually in economic impact statewide. Luke alone contributes more than 8,000 jobs and $2.17 billion annually to Arizona’s economy, according to a recent study commissioned by the state.

Fighter Country Partnership (FCP) Chairman Charley Freericks, who is co-chairing the Luke Forward campaign with Scruggs, credits community support for today’s decision.
“Local community support of military bases is very important back in Washington, and we know the tremendous Valley and statewide support for Luke Air Force Base really helped us,” said Freericks, a senior vice president at DMB Associates.

“We reached literally tens of thousands of Arizonans through our citizen and business outreach initiatives, and community support for Luke Air Force Base was overwhelming. There is no question that this strong level of support was a significant factor in the Air Force’s decision to site the F-35 at Luke.”

Today’s announcement is being made prior to the release of the Air Force’s draft F-35 basing EIS document, which is anticipated to be published in the next 30 days. The Air Force is required to conduct an environmental assessment of each potential F-35 site before making its final basing decision.

This federally mandated assessment, which is referred to as the EIS process, allows individual citizens and communities around candidate bases to provide input during the formal evaluation of each base.

The Draft EIS will serve as the Air Force’s notice of intent to proceed. Once the Draft EIS is released, in which Luke will be identified as the Air Force’s preferred site, public hearings will be held later this year.

Once the public hearings are held and the comment period concludes, the Air Force will release its final EIS document that will provide responses to comments received from the public.

After the Final EIS document is published, there will be an additional 30-day public review period. After reviewing comments received during this time frame and after considering any environmental impacts, the Air Force will making its final basing decision. It is anticipated the Air Force’s final “Record of Decision,” which will conclude the EIS process, will be made in early 2011.

1. F-35 training a step closer to flight at Luke
2. Support Building for Statewide F-35 Luke Forward Campaign
3. Luke AFB Pilot Selected to Fly F-35 Lightning II at Eglin AFB

Fighter Country Foundation (FCF), established in 2006, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, that promotes programs and services at Luke Air Force Base that aid, support and honor Airmen and their families in need. Many bases have experienced budget reductions of 40% or more which eliminates funding for many events and human service programs. FCF has made a significant impact on the lives of servicemen and women with their support and promotion of events and programs that aid Luke Air Force Base. Some of these programs include: Airmen Against Drunk Driving (AADD), Unit Spouse and Family Support Fund and Operation Thunderbox. Please make a donation today.

Last year’s inaugural Patriot Day Celebration proved to be very successful with more than 1,100 citizens gathering to celebrate our heroes, their families and to salute our fallen soldiers. Approximately 1,200 blankets were collected for refugees and war torn Afghan delivered by signature sponsor, American Airlines. We were very fortunate to have 40 local and national corporations donate 85% of the budget in funds and in-kind support. Fumar Cigars has donated more than 250,000 cigars to soldiers over the past five years.

Our goal is even greater this year and we need your support on our sponsorship team to help make the donation to Fighter Country Foundation significant. Sponsorships are offered from $5,000 to $225, giving your company prominent visibility and recognition. Review the sponsorship page to learn more about the donation levels and availability.

We hope you’ll decide to “Join the Troops” and be a member of our sponsorship team. If you have any questions, please contact us.

EVENT OVERVIEW

WHAT: 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration
WHEN: Saturday, September 11, 2010 (9-11-10)
WHERE: 2010 West Parkside Lane (at Deer Valley Airpark), Phoenix
1 – 6 pm
WHO: Hosted by Fumar’s Friends of Freedom
WHY: Benefiting Fighter Country Foundation, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, which supports programs and
services at Luke Air Force Base that aid, support and honor Airmen and their families in need.
HOW: FREE Admission.
COLLECTING: New or gently used blankets for Afghan refugees
SILENT AUCTION: Items include three bottles of 1982 Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou, Saint-Julien, 5 days and R/T airfare to Hyatt Maui, 5 days and R/T airfare to Kaui Hyatt, party for 10 half day horseback and picnic lunch at Ft. McDowell Adventures, lunch with Senator Russell Pearce, 2 First Class R/T to Florida on American Airlines, 2X – Scottsdale Gun Club Annual Membership + MGA Machine Gun Adventure + Defender Vest Kit, a ride in a Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, a ride in N. American T-6 Texan, a ride in a Piper PA-28 Turbo Arrow and a ride in a NanChang CJ-6. More details can be found here.
FOOD/DRINK: Food and drink will be available for purchase
MUSIC: by Corinne Chapman and Phil Vandel
EXPERIENCE: National Anthem by Chuck Taylor, Fly-overs by 4 Yaks, presentation of colors by Luke AFB ROTC, Black Hawk Heli display, Apache Heli display, rock climbing wall, Awards presentations, VIP/Dignitaries, silent auction, golf driving range and vendor veteran and non-profit organization displays
KIDS ZONE: Skype terminals to communicate with soldiers abroad, entertainment games for families and treasure box assembly for soldiers overseas
EMAIL: david@fumarcigarsusa.com & amy@sensational-events.com
CALL: David Haddad, Fumar Cigars @ 602-570-4751 or Amy Petrovsky, Sensational Events, @ 602-696-4646

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND MEDIA PARTNERS
American Airlines
Alliance Beverage Distributing
Arc Impressions
Auto Week
Best Buy
BoomText
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson
Crocs Cares
C & R Tire Automotive
Fairmont Scottsdale
Fidelity National Title
Four Peaks Brewing
Imaginary Trout^®
Integrity Car & Truck Sales
KYFI Newstalk Radio
KYKO Roofing
M Catering by Michaels
Nationwide Insurance
Pour Masters
TheLEDLight.com
TriWest Healthcare Alliance
The VGM Group
Yelp.com

Event Production by:
Sensational Events
Fumar Cigars

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GIVE-AWAY PRIZES(check here for additional updates)

• TROON: 40 Troon Cards (valued at $250 each-The Troon Card (aka the AZ Foursome Card) gives the cardholder plus up to 3 guests green fee discounts of about 50% at each of Troon’s 15 Arizona daily fee golf courses.
• Arizona Biltmore: 2 complimentary dinner’s for 2 (excluding alcohol) in Wrights
• Hard Rock Hotels: 1 night stay and meal for 2 in MJs
• Hyatt Hotels: 2 night stay at the Hyatt Lake Tahoe
• Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa: 2 night stay and dinner for 2 in our Italian restaurant, Alto Ristorante e bar
• La Quinta Resort and Spa: 2 night stay plus dinner for 2 at 26 Restaurant
• La Valencia Resort at La Jolla: 1 night stay + breakfast
• Fox Sports Grill: 4 – $25 gift certificates
• The Scottsdale Plaza Resort: 2 night stay in one of our patio suites
• Fort McDowell Adventures: Cowboy cookout for 10, and a horseback riding gift certificate
• Hotel Valley Ho: 1 night stay with breakfast for 2
• Trilogy Golf Club at Vistancia: Golf foursome & lunch

JOIN US AT THE EVENT AND GET A COUPON FOR 10% OFF YOUR NEXT TRIP FROM AMERICAN AIRLINES!

Official event fly to download and share is available here.

1. 9-11 Patriot Day Celebration Giveaway
2. 2nd Annual Patriot Day Celebration
3. Annual Luke AFB Programs

FCP Chairman Charley Freericks & City of Surprise Mayor Barrett shake hands as the City of Surprise donates $25K

Mayor Barrett and the City of Surprise donates $25,000 to Fighter Country Partnership.  FCP CEO & Executive Director Steven Yamamori thanks the City of Surprise for supporting the men, women, families and mission of Luke Air Force Base through their generous contribution!

No related posts.

Lockheed Martin has developed the most advanced painting facility in the world.
It was created for one single purpose: To make the F-35 Lighting II almost invisible
to radar.

The facility uses a low observable painting process using laser guides to apply
radar absorbent composites to joint strike fighter. The robotic laser guides and
paint guns use an infra-red grid to triangulate their position in relation to the aircraft.

Original post inspiration credit Gizmodo.  Video courtesy of Lockheed Martin.

No related posts.

By Rep. Kay Granger (R-Texas) – 06/30/10 07:59 PM ET

The F-35 joint strike fighter program has changed significantly during the past year. The Pentagon restructured the program, installed new leadership to oversee it and conducted a thorough review of the entire project.

One thing hasn’t changed: America needs the F-35.

The Defense Department reaffirmed that fact in a recent report to Congress after taking a hard look at the next-generation fighter. The reassessment concluded the F-35 is vital to national defense and “remains the backbone of the (aviation) inventory.”

The F-35 Lightning II program is delivering three variants of the same aircraft to three U.S. service branches — the Air Force, the Navy and the Marines — as well as several allies who are helping to pay for its development.

The common features shared by the three variants decrease development and operational costs. Just as importantly, the unique features of each variant provide the versatility required for the Air Force to operate on conventional runways, the Navy to operate on aircraft carriers and the Marines to land vertically like a helicopter.

The F-35 will do the job of four aging aircraft that have been the workhorses of our services for the past three decades. It can provide air support for ground troops or attack targets at sea or on land.

Intense scrutiny and restructuring have improved the F-35 program. Now, it’s time to move forward. What the program needs now is stability.

Some Members of Congress have raised the prospect of once again slowing the rate of F-35 production. Current plans call for production to ramp up from 43 aircraft in fiscal year 2011 to more than 220 a year by fiscal year 2016.

Maintaining that production schedule is important because reductions would delay delivery of this vital aircraft to our services and guarantee higher costs. The F-35 program relies on almost 900 suppliers in 45 states. Those companies, which include small businesses, need certainty in the production schedule so they can hire employees and purchase equipment to meet their con tractual obligations on time and on budget.

Stability also encourages foreign investment in the F-35. Eight U.S. allies have partnered with the United States to develop the aircraft. During the life of the program, foreign sales could total more than $60 billion — providing jobs at home and closer cooperation with U.S. allies abroad.

The F-35 is not a jobs program, but in this economy the jobs are certainly welcome. Even at the current low rate of production, the F-35 program generates more than 127,000 direct and indirect jobs across the country. The overall economic impact of the program will total about $11.1 billion this year alone.

Those high-quality jobs are breathing new life into a manufacturing and technology base depleted by spending reductions for military aviation after the end of the Cold War. The production infrastructure is available to deliver F-35s in the quantities that the Defense Department needs.

Production delays would drive up costs, disrupt the supply chain, weaken the commitment of allies and force the service branches to continue to rely on aging, outdated aircraft. No one wins.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates is determined to cut defense programs that he considers wasteful but the secretary also understands the need for stability. In a Statement of Administration Policy on the House

Armed Services Committee National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011, the White House has warned ongress that restrictions that limit F-35 production would “impose unacceptable schedule and budget risks.”

To underscore the depth of administration support, the White House warning included a veto threat for any provisions “that would seriously disrupt the F-35 program.”

Of course, cost is a legitimate concern for any government program. Members of Congress and the Defense Department have an obligation to maintain their oversight role on the F-35 program. As a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I believe the close scrutiny should continue, and it will.

But unnecessary delays will not save money. It is time to move forward with a realistic production schedule for an aircraft that America needs now. The F-35 is ready for takeoff.

Rep. Granger is the Ranking Republican on the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee and sits on the Defense Subcommittee.

Source:
http://thehill.com/special-reports/defense-a-aerospace-july-2010/106569-the-f-35-cleared-for-takeoff

1. F35 JSF for Operational Testing – Britain Aquiring 3rd STOVL Model
2. Pentagon underscores commitment to F-35
3. Hundreds of F-35 aircraft suppliers coordinate with Teamcenter

“Each person and position is carefully selected based on the individual’s record of performance, capabilities in their particular field and a demonstrated commitment to excellence that matches the Airmen we represent every day,” said Lt. Col. Case Cunningham, the squadron commander/leader and Thunderbird No. 1, in an Air Force news release.

Pilots selected for the team who currently fly a different airframe will undergo several months of F-16 familiarization training before they begin practicing the aerial demonstrations with the Thunderbird pilots.

Those selected are:

Capt. Ryan Riley, an F-16 pilot stationed at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, who will join the team as the left wing for the squadron as Thunderbird No. 2.

Capt. Nicholas Holmes, an F-16 pilot stationed at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., who will serve as the slot for the squadron as Thunderbird No. 4.

Capt. John Williams, an F-15 pilot stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., who will take over as the opposing solo, Thunderbird No. 6.

Lt. Col. Jason Koltes, an F-16 pilot serving at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, who will join the team as the operations officer, Thunderbird No. 7.

Capt. Joshua Hawkins, stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, who will become the new executive officer, as Thunderbird No. 10.

Maj. Jason Moore, currently stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., who will serve as the maintenance officer, Thunderbird No. 11.

Selection of the next public affairs officer, Thunderbird No. 12, is delayed until late summer due to the deployed status of one of the finalists.

Staff report from the Air Force Times on Tuesday Jun 22, 2010

1. Luke Air Force Base F-16 Fighter Pilot Instructor Captain Hubbard Selected for Thunderbirds
2. Luke AFB Pilot Selected to Fly F-35 Lightning II at Eglin AFB
3. Luke Air Force Base & the F-35 – Frequent Questions

Sen. John McCain at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona

On Friday, U.S. Sen. John McCain told West Valley leaders in Litchfield Park that he is confident Luke Air Force Base will land the F-35 Lightning II, a new generation of stealth aircraft.

The F-35 Lightning II, also called the Joint Strike Fighter, has long been regarded as the savior of Luke, a base in Glendale where F-16 pilots are trained. McCain was addressing Westmarc, a West Valley consortium of business, government and community leaders.

“I can say with great confidence, we will have the F-35 at Luke Air Force Base where training for every Air Force pilot will take place,” he said.

The Air Force is in the midst of an environmental-impact study to determine the aircraft’s effect on such things as air quality and noise. A first draft is expected in September.

Although the decision where to base the F-35 isn’t McCain’s, he is the ranking Republican member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. He is also running for re-election in a Republican primary campaign against challenger J.D. Hayworth, a former six-term Arizona congressman and conservative radio talk-show host.

Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs and Peoria Mayor Bob Barrett were thrilled at McCain’s prediction.

“What jumped out at me is the F-35 is coming to Luke Air Force Base,” Scruggs said. “I liked that certainty and assuredness and no questions about it.”

Barrett said the most important economic issue facing the West Valley is the acquisition of the F-35 at Luke. Luke’s economic impact on the state is almost $2.2 billion.

“For the senator to stand up there and say he is confident that we’re going to secure the F-35 is exhilarating,” Barrett said.

Story by David Madrid @ The Arizona Republic

1. Peoria mayor urges Luke Air Force Base support
2. City of Surprise Supports the F-35 and the Sound of Freedom from Luke Air Force Base
3. Surpise Mayor Truitt Supports The F-35 Training Mission at Luke Air Force Base

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EO DAS and Related Information

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F-35 Joint Strike Fighter

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1. Sypris Electronics awarded new F-35 contract
2. Lockheed Martin Awarded Millions for Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning Radars
3. Chapter 4: Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the F-35 JSF from Critics

5/28/2010 – LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. — Enlisted service members with promotion testing in their near future can take advantage of a free and convenient flashcard study tool recently developed by one of Luke Air Force Base’s own.

First Lt. Brian Reese, 56th Mission Support Group Commander’s Action Group chief, is the co-founder of TestSoup, a Web site and mobile application devoted to helping individuals prepare for standardized tests.

Although the Web site charges a small fee for civilians ($9.95 for GMAT, GRE, or ACCUPLACER flashcards), Lieutenant Reese said the Air Force Professional Development Guide flashcards are free for Airmen.

“Airmen have enough things to worry about at work, home and while deployed,” Lieutenant Reese said. “I believe they should have a better way to study.”

Lieutenant Reese thought of the idea to create this tool when he was studying for the GMAT.

“I was very frustrated with the other systems on the market because I needed to review important core concepts” he said. “I wanted something quick, easy and convenient that didn’t cost a lot of money — TestSoup is the answer.”

Airmen interested in using this tool can either register with TestSoup.com directly or connect with Facebook account user name and password to save time, Lieutenant Reese said.

“Once Airmen log in, they will have access to more than 2,500 flashcards,” he said. “The system is user friendly with options to study by chapter, skip to different chapters of the PDG, and flag cards for review. Page numbers appear after the question so Airmen can find the underlying concept in the PDG textbook.”

Charles Dittell, 56th Force Support Squadron flight chief, previously an educational service officer, said he is really excited about TestSoup.com.

“Not only will this Web site give Airmen an excellent, free tool to use for Weighted Airman Promotion System testing, but it can also help them when they decide to start college or begin preparing for a graduate program,” Mr. Dittell said. “I can definitely see this concept catching on with K-12s, universities, Air Force and Defense Department — especially since people can study both online and on-the-go.”

Lieutenant Reese said promotion flashcards for senior NCOs and mobile applications for iPhone and Android should be available by late summer. The Blackberry application is already up and running.

To try out the program, click the following link: www.testsoup.com

1. Luke Airmen guest of NASCAR’s Crown Royal #17
2. Missouri Guard sending two airmen to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
3. 309th AMU at Luke AFB receives Nellis AFB F-16

Maj. Josh "Dog" Wood, 56th Operations Support Squadron weapons chief, was selected to fly the new F-35 Lightning II Joints Strike Fighter. He was one of five pilots selected out of approximately 150 candidates. (U.S. Air Force photo/Justin Oakes)

Maj. Josh Wood, current 56th FW Weapons officer, will soon be departing Luke AFB and no longer fly F-16s, but the next generation aircraft, the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

With Air Force bases across the globe submitting recommendations, Major Wood is one of five pilots selected out of approximately 150 candidates to fly the F-35.

“First off, I’m extremely humbled and it means the world to me,” said Major Wood. “I can’t describe what an unbelievable opportunity this is.”

Major Wood has spent 10 years in the Air Force and has been stationed at Luke since July 2008. He has more than 1,430 flight hours in an F-16 and approximately 1,650 total flight hours.

The future F-35 pilot attributes his selection to something a little more than a decade of experience and more than a thousand hours of flight time.

“It was the right combination of luck, timing, superior leadership and God’s sovereignty that allowed me to be chosen,” Major Wood said. “Coming to Luke also played an integral part. I was afforded the opportunity to be both a basic F-16 instructor and a weapons officer at the largest F-16 base in the world. And both positions were selection criteria for the F-35 program.”

The F-35 Lightning II and the F-16 Fighting Falcon share several similarities that will make the transition easier, Major Wood said.

“Both are single engine, multirole aircraft that share stick and hands-on throttle likeness,” Major Wood said. “The cockpit of the F-35 was heavily influenced by and bears a strong resemblance to the F-16.”

But what Major Wood is looking forward to are not the similarities, but the differences in technology and enhancements in capabilities the new Joint Strike Fighter offers.

“A new helmet-mounted display system, electro-optical targeting system and a distributed aperture system are just a few of things I’m looking forward to getting my hands on,” Major Wood said.

A synthetic aperture system provides pilots with a unique protective sphere around the aircraft enhancing situational awareness, missile and aircraft warning, day and night vision and fire control capability.

“Through the use of this new aircraft, we will be able to bridge the gap from current threat to capability,” Major Wood said. “We will have the ability to go anywhere and continue making our mark on air dominance and supremacy.”

In four weeks Major Wood departs for a one-year short tour at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, before moving to Eglin AFB and begin flying the new F-35.

Seeing how I’m a Tallahassee, Fla., native, the location couldn’t better, Major Wood said.

“We also have grandparents in Florida. And for the first time ever, we’ll be stationed less than 1,000 miles from home,” Major Wood said. “We are all very excited and this is a positive thing all the way around. The entire family is excited to be a part of this effort.”

by Justin Oakes
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1. Luke Air Force Base F-16 Fighter Pilot Instructor Captain Hubbard Selected for Thunderbirds
2. LUKE AFB SELECTED AS PREFERRED LOCATION FOR F-35 PILOT TRAINING CENTER
3. F-35 Training Simulators flying high at Eglin Air Force Base

The Pentagon’s forthcoming warplane, the Joint Strike Fighter, is intended for use across the different branches of the military but has come under fire in Congress for skyrocketing costs and delays. Skeptics and defenders of the aircraft, which will be called the F-35, express their views in the following extended interviews. Author and journalist Bill Sweetman says for the first time the re-equipment plans of the U.S. fighter force is reliant on one program and one manufacturer:

Chapter 1:

Watch Chapter 2

Watch Chapter 3

Watch Chapter 4

1. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 2
2. Chapter 4: Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the F-35 JSF from Critics
3. Chapter 3: Winslow Wheeler says F-35 was doomed from the start

U.S. Air Force Test Pilot Lt. Col. Hank “Hog” Griffiths and Lockheed Martin Chief Test Pilot Jon Beesley flew the jets, known as AF-1 and AF-2, nonstop in the first multi-ship, long-range F-35 flight.

“The ferry flight went very smoothly, and reflects how the Air Force and Lockheed Martin will work cooperatively as we enter long-term F-35 testing at Edwards,” Beesley said.

During the jets’ deployment to Edwards, the F-35s will undergo ground- and flight-test activities for propulsion, aerial refueling, logistical support, weapons integration and flight-envelope expansion.

“Through rigorous flight testing we are developing dominant and lethal 5th generation fighter capability for America and her allies,” said Doug Pearson, Lockheed Martin vice president of F-35 test and verification.

“This historic moment at Edwards Air Force Base begins the planned expansion of F-35 flight test to a third permanent operating location. Lockheed Martin F-35A flight testing is a highly integrated partnership with the United States Air Force.”

Three F-35s are currently undergoing flight trials at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md., the primary test site for the F-35B short takeoff/ vertical landing variant and the F-35C carrier variant. F-35s have conducted more than 200 test flights, with six additional test aircraft scheduled to begin flying and deploying to the two test sites this year.

The F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant – designed to meet U.S. Air Force requirements – is also the primary export version of the Lightning II. The air forces of Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, Canada, Australia, Denmark and Norway will employ the F-35A.

F-35 test aircraft are supported by the F-35 Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS) and managed by the Lockheed Martin F-35 Sustainment Operations Center in Fort Worth. ALIS is the worldwide support system reporting and recording the prognostics and health of all F-35s around the globe to ensure mission readiness.

The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation fighter, combining advanced stealth with fighter speed and agility, fully fused sensor information, network-enabled operations, advanced sustainment, and lower operational and support costs. Lockheed Martin is developing the F-35 with its principal industrial partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines are under development: the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

1. Lockheed Martin F-35 Flew Just 10% of Planned 2009 Tests
2. Lockheed Martin Awarded Millions for Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning Radars
3. Lockheed Martin considering F-35 sales to India

The Navy plans to begin sending pilots in early 2011 to the training squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Lockheed Martin, which makes the F-35, is developing the training program for the first cadre of experienced pilots, who will in turn train a broader group of Navy pilots.

The F-35C community will be limited to experienced pilots — mostly those with at least 1,000 flight hours — who are coming from the F/A-18 Hornet community, for at least two years, said Joanne Puglisi, Lockheed’s director of training for the F-35. The F-35C is the carrier variant of the tri-service program.

After that, the Navy could begin to ship pilots fresh out of flight school to the F-35C training wing, Puglisi said.

“We need those high-time transition guys to make sure that the things we’re training will be validated by the young kids,” Puglisi said.

The first cadre of pilots will also fly initial aircraft with limited software systems. For example, aircraft with an air-to-ground mission package may arrive before those with the air-to-air software.

“The airplane is arriving with different blocks of software. … A transition guy with a thousand flight hours will understand that I may only have this piece [of software],” she said.

Upon arrival at the training wing, pilots will receive laptop computers and a unique stick-and-throttle device that plugs into its USB port and allows for simulation training at home.

The first F-35 simulators arrived in April at the training wing at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. A full-scale simulator with a 360-degree dome will arrive later this year.

The F-35 training software will be directly tied to fleet aircraft software. That will allow the training wing to update its software soon after the aircraft systems receive major upgrades.

In the past, simulation programs were developed independently, and the training software is often several years old.

“If they make a change, we want to be able to put that in the trainer much faster, probably within months of each other,” Puglisi said.

Source: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2010/05/navy_F35_simulators_051710w/

1. Major F-35 training mission criteria requirement met by Luke Air Force Base
2. Luke Air Force Base Serves as the “School House” for Air Force Fighter Training
3. Surpise Mayor Truitt Supports The F-35 Training Mission at Luke Air Force Base

The company said Crowley will be responsible for day to day functions of the division. For the last five years, he was general manager of Lockheed’s F-35 program.

Taking over for Crowley on that program will be Larry Lawson. Lawson had been general manager of the F-22 Raptor program since December 2004.

George Shultz, who had been the deputy manager of the F-22 program, will take over as general manager.

The changes are effective June 7.

The Pentagon restructured the $300 billion F-35 program earlier this year and withheld up to $614 million in award fees from Lockheed because its performance undercut expectations.

The company is beginning to shut down the production line for the radar-evading F-22 after years of fighting to sell more of the most advanced fighters in the world to the government.

The F-35, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter is in development with eight foreign countries. Slated to replace over a dozen aging fighters worldwide, it will become the world’s largest military fighter aircraft program.

The Pentagon’s No. 1 defense contractor also said that George Shultz, vice president and deputy general manager of the F-22 program since November 2008, would take over as general manager of that program in June.

Chris Hellman, defense analyst and director of research at the National Priorities Project, said the news of Crowley’s promotion was surprising, given cost overruns of nearly 50 percent on the F-35 program.

“Given the recent problems with the program it’s hard to avoid the perception of rewarding poor management,” Hellman said, noting that for years, Lockheed had been promoting the F-35 as a low-cost alternative to the more expensive F-22.

“When one of your selling points is the affordability of the aircraft, cost growth on the order of magnitude of 50 percent is a serious problem,” Hellman said.

Lockheed Chief Executive Robert Stevens told reporters in March that he had absolute confidence in Crowley, despite problems with the program, although he had made changes to increase corporate oversight.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates in February removed the Marine Corps general who was running the F-35 program for the Pentagon. His successor, a Navy admiral, has been appointed, but not yet confirmed by the Senate.

Daniel J. Crowley was appointed Executive Vice President of the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Joint Strike Fighter Program effective May 2, 2005. He is responsible for successful completion of the F-35 System Design and Development Program, transition to full rate production, and global deployment and sustainment of three F-35 variants for 13 military services in nine partner countries. Mr. Crowley has held several key positions with Lockheed Martin, including President of Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training & Support, where he led a 2700-person company focused on mission readiness and Vice President of Business Development and Advanced Programs for Lockheed Martin Space and Strategic Missiles responsible for strategic planning, advanced technology concepts and new business acquisition.

1. Despite troubled F-35 Schedule, Executive in charge gets vote of confidence
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Flew Just 10% of Planned 2009 Tests
3. New F-35 program head named as Vice Admiral David Venlet

BY JOYCE LOBECK – SUN STAFF WRITER

The future for Marine Corps Air Station Yuma is rapidly approaching as development of the F-35, the nation’s new joint strike fighter, moves forward.

The air station is slated to become the first base to receive the very first of the new aircraft in spring of 2012, according to the “preferred option” and current time line, said Maj. James Combs, community plans and liaison officer for MCAS Yuma, during Greater Yuma Economic Development Corp.’s quarterly investors luncheon Tuesday.

It all hinges on the record of decision, scheduled for December. In the meantime, Combs said the environmental impact statement is slated for public release in May, to be followed by a series of public hearings to begin in mid-June.

“I’ve reviewed the EIS and it looks favorable for Yuma and (Marine Corps Air Station) Miramar,” he said. “There aren’t any outstanding concerns that I saw.”

Still, he said, it’s important for area residents to attend the public meetings and voice their concerns, issues and questions.

“The public meetings will have an impact on the decision,” he said. “Let us know your thoughts. This is the time for the community to speak up and have its voice heard.”

It will be particularly important, he said, for defense officials to hear how the community supports the military. That’s a tradition in Yuma, he noted, that is the envy of other military installations.

Julie Engel, president and CEO of GYEDC, also stressed the importance of public participation.

To that end, the Citizens Action Committee to support the F-35 will meet from 5 to 7 p.m. May 10 at the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce auditorium, 180 W. 1st St. (the old City Hall council chambers).

“We want a big showing at the forum and the public meetings,” she said. “We can’t grow more houses until we grow the economy.”

And the F-35 coming to MCAS Yuma presents a real opportunity to benefit the area’s economy.

For one thing, it will mean more aircraft and more personnel here, both military and civilian, Combs noted.

If the preferred option is approved, MCAS Yuma is slated to receive five F-35 squadrons of 10 to 16 aircraft each as well as an operational testing and evaluation squadron of six aircraft, for a total of 76 aircraft. That’s 26 more aircraft than are currently based here.

It also will mean an additional 500 personnel. And it will require a presence by civilian contractors to help with advanced maintenance, Combs said.

The goal is to have personnel start arriving the summer of 2011, 10 aircraft here by December 2012 and the first scheduled deployment in 2014, Combs said. Other F-35 squadrons would be based at Miramar.

To get ready for the F-35, an estimated nearly $500 million is being invested over three years in new infrastructure at MCAS Yuma, such as state-of-the-art hangars with greater security.

One reason MCAS Yuma is at the leading edge, Combs said, is because as a training base, the air station will need to support the F-35 for transient squadrons even if the aircraft weren’t to be based here.

Engel also noted that with Yuma centrally located among Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force bases in California and Arizona, it is in a position to support the versions of the F-35 being developed for the three military branches.

The F-35A with conventional landing and takeoff capability is being developed for the Air Force, the Marine Corps version is the F-35B with short take off and vertical landing capability, while the F-35C is being developed for the Navy with carrier landing capability.

Combs said MCAS Yuma has also been designated for a temporary training squadron if plans fall through to locate training for all the military branches at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. However, he said, lawsuits challenging Eglin are currently on hold and that base is on track.

Combs also stressed that the Marine Corps’ decision about the F-35 is independent of the other two branches, including the Air Force, which is considering Phoenix or Tucson bases. He added that Marine Corps will lead the way by receiving the F-35B in 2012, while the Navy is scheduled to begin receiving the F-35C by 2014 and the Air Force the F-35A by 2016.

Joyce Lobeck can be reached at jlobeck@yumasun.com or 539-6853.

1. Community Support Key to Arrival of F-35 in Yuma
2. F-35 Noise Concerns an action item for U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords
3. Large Crowds in El Mirage Support New F-35 at Luke Air Force Base

ESOHCAMP 11 days away

by AJ MUHS
56th Civil Engineer Squadron

Although storm water runoff is simply rainwater, it flows over land and can become a problem. When it picks up and carries sediment and contaminants from streets, rooftops and lawns, it carries them to surface water bodies and ground water through the soil causing contamination.

Storm water is a problem if it mixes with pollutants like fertilizer, oil, sediment, pet waste, soap, pesticides and other chemicals that are picked up by runoff then carried untreated to local water bodies. It is important to realize that all storm water entering a storm sewer system receives no treatment before re-entering the water cycle.

At Luke Air Force Base, most of the storm water runoff is collected in the concrete ditches that run along Litchfield Road and Northern Avenue. This runoff drains untreated into the Agua Fria River. Since people are the primary source of these pollutants, individuals can do a lot to protect local water bodies by being mindful of what should not be dumped down storm drains.

Most people are unaware that making a few changes in their daily lives will tremendously reduce the amount of pollutants they contribute to storm water runoff. Luke and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area continue to work together to promote storm water education throughout Arizona. Preventing storm water pollution is everyone’s responsibility.

Tips to minimize storm water pollutants:

Lawn care

• Monitor watering schedules and avoid overwatering

• Use lawn products sparingly, and follow the manufacturer’s suggested procedure

• Avoid the use of fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides just before, during or immediately after a storm or windy conditions

• Control loose soil and prevent it from washing into the storm drain

Auto care

• Wash vehicles at a commercial car wash to prevent dirty, soapy water from entering the storm drain; or in the yard so the water infiltrates the ground

• Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations

Pet waste

• Pet waste can be a source of pollution in water bodies where pets and children play

• Clean-up after pets and properly dispose of waste

Did You Know?

• One gallon of oil has the potential to contaminate up to one million gallons of water (source EPA)

• Sediment is the number one pollutant of the nation’s rivers and lakes (source EPA)

Additional storm water resources

Arizona storm water outreach-azstorm.org

Glendale residents-www.glendaleaz.com/

Surprise residents-www.surpriseaz.gov/

Litchfield Park residents-www.litchfield-park.org/

Goodyear residents-www.ci.goodyear.az.us/

Peoria residents-www.peoriaaz.gov/

For more information about storm water, call (623) 856-8490.

1. F-35 will provide vital boost to Tucson economy
2. Arizona is recognized as a national model in protecting military facilities

FORT WORTH, Texas, April 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), jointly with Magestic Systems, Inc. (MSI) and Nikon Metrology, has won a first-place JEC Innovation Award in composites manufacturing for technology used in the production of the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter.

The 2010 JEC Innovation Award was presented in Paris in recognition of the cured laminate compensation (CLC) process – an innovative composite manufacturing solution for achieving precision, as-built laminate thickness without costly post-cure machining. This new metrology-assisted process is used in the production of composite parts for the F-35 and was developed specifically to pre-measure and correct the thickness of cured composite wing skins for the F-35. The technology will result in significant cost savings to Lockheed Martin and its F-35 global supply network.

“The award spotlights a highly innovative process in the most innovative fighter production system ever devised,” said Mike Packer, Lockheed Martin vice president of Manufacturing Strategy & Processes. “This process increases production of right-first-time composite parts, using both MSI’s Ply Compensation(TM) System (PCS(TM)) and Nikon Metrology’s Laser Radar technology.”

The award was presented at an April 13 ceremony during the opening of the JEC Show in Paris. A jury of renowned international experts selected the best composite innovations, based on their technical interest, market potential, partnership, financial impact and originality. The JEC Show is JEC Composites’ annual conference focused on the application and advancement of composites. JEC Composites is the leading network supporting the global composite industry.

The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation fighter, combining advanced stealth with fighter speed and agility, fully fused sensor information, network-enabled operations, advanced sustainment, and lower operational and support costs. Lockheed Martin is developing the F-35 with its principal industrial partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines are under development: the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

For additional information, visit our website:

http://www.lockheedmartin.com

For F-35 photos and videos, visit:

http://multivu.prnewswire.com/player/42215-lockheed-martin-f-35/

SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company

Source: PR Newswire

1. Third F-35 Lightning II short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) stealth fighter lands
2. The first two production F-35 fighters are in final assembly
3. F135 CTOL/CV engine for the Lockheed F-35 stealth fighter gets ISR

The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program creates the perfect opportunity — a multi-role aircraft replacing numerous tactical fighter aircraft, with potential production for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and international customers to reach 5,000 to 6,000 aircraft over 30 years. Without competing engines for the fighter, a $100 billion monopoly will be handed to a single supplier.

The JSF engine program will ultimately reach $100 billion. Recently, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) anticipated a 20 percent benefit from a JSF engine competition, using the F-16 engine competition as a comparison. There are also vast benefits beyond sheer cost – related to operational readiness and contractor responsiveness.

The P&W F135 development is estimated to grow 50 percent beyond its original contract, from $4.8 billion to $7.3 billion, according to a recent report from the GAO, adding, “F135 engine development cost increases primarily resulted from higher costs for labor and materials, supplier problems, and the rework needed to correct deficiencies with an engine blade during re-design.”

The F136 engine is a product of the best technology from two world-leading propulsion companies. The GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team has designed the only engine specifically developed for the F-35 aircraft, offering extra temperature margin and affordable growth. F136 engine development is being led at GE Aviation in Evendale, Ohio (Cincinnati suburb), Ohio; and at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The F-35 is a 5th-generation, multi-role aircraft designed to replace the AV-8B Harrier, A-10, F-16, F/A-18 Hornet and the United Kingdom’s Harrier GR.7 and Sea Harrier, all of which are currently powered by GE or Rolls-Royce. Potential F-35 production for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and international customers may reach as many as 5000 to 6000 aircraft over the next 30 years.

GE Aviation is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings. For more information, visit us at www.ge.com/aviation.

General Electric Co. and Rolls-Royce today announced that they have offered to the Pentagon a fixed price offer on their F136 engine for the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF).

The offer intends to create and accelerate competition between the JSF program’s two engine suppliers, and to shift the risk of cost overruns from the government to defense contractors.

The offer could change the Government’s acquisition model for procuring approximately 150 F136 engines in the early years of the fighter program, allowing the Government to know immediately its costs over this period. Also, the approach is intended to drive lower pricing between the two competing engine suppliers.

With more than 70 percent of its development complete, the GE/Rolls-Royce F136 engine program is poised for flight-testing next year.

“Today, we are announcing a fixed-price offer for F136 engines purchased in 2012, followed by further price reductions for engines procured in each 2013 and 2014,” said David Joyce, president and CEO of GE Aviation. “We can create a competitive environment that will save the government $1 billion over the next five years, and $20 billion over the life of the JSF program.”

1. Pentagon Aggressively Reviewing F-35 Joint Strike Fighter
2. F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Flies in United Kingdom
3. F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program will be delayed by about one year

The Pentagon’s forthcoming warplane, the Joint Strike Fighter, is intended for use across the different branches of the military but has come under fire in Congress for skyrocketing costs and delays. Skeptics and defenders of the aircraft, which will be called the F-35, express their views in the following extended interviews. Author and journalist Bill Sweetman says for the first time the re-equipment plans of the U.S. fighter force is reliant on one program and one manufacturer:

Chapter 3:
Former Capitol Hill staffer Winslow Wheeler says the F-35 was doomed from the start because of its three different functions and use by multiple services:

Watch Chapter 1

Watch Chapter 2

Watch Chapter 4

1. Chapter 4: Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the F-35 JSF from Critics
2. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 1
3. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 2

The Pentagon’s forthcoming warplane, the Joint Strike Fighter, is intended for use across the different branches of the military but has come under fire in Congress for skyrocketing costs and delays. Skeptics and defenders of the aircraft, which will be called the F-35, express their views in the following extended interviews. Author and journalist Bill Sweetman says for the first time the re-equipment plans of the U.S. fighter force is reliant on one program and one manufacturer:

Chapter 4:
Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the Joint Strike Fighter from its critics:

Watch Chapter 1

Watch Chapter 2

Watch Chapter 3

1. Chapter 3: Winslow Wheeler says F-35 was doomed from the start
2. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 1
3. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 2

The Pentagon’s forthcoming warplane, the Joint Strike Fighter, is intended for use across the different branches of the military but has come under fire in Congress for skyrocketing costs and delays. Skeptics and defenders of the aircraft, which will be called the F-35, express their views in the following extended interviews. Author and journalist Bill Sweetman says for the first time the re-equipment plans of the U.S. fighter force is reliant on one program and one manufacturer:

Chapter 2:
Maj. Gen. C.D. Moore says the F-35′s near invisibility to enemy weapons systems is one of the factors that will make it an effective warplane:

Watch Chapter 1

Watch Chapter 3

Watch Chapter 4

1. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 1
2. Chapter 4: Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the F-35 JSF from Critics
3. Chapter 3: Winslow Wheeler says F-35 was doomed from the start

Transcript below
JEFFREY BROWN: Next: to the saga of a U.S. military plane that was designed to do more for less, but is now hitting headwinds.

Congressional Correspondent Kwame Holman has the story…

KWAME HOLMAN: It may look like any other fighter jet at Patuxent River Naval Air station, but the Joint Strike Fighter taking shape here is the Pentagon’s costliest and some say riskiest bet ever on the future of military aviation. It has come under fire from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress.

MAN: I think the American people, if they knew about this, would be shocked about how long it has taken to do this plane and get it into the air.

SEN. CLAIRE MCCASKILL, D-Mo.: Somebody needs to be held accountable.

KWAME HOLMAN: A major selling point for the F-35 was, it would save money. The Pentagon plans to produce one aircraft that could be used by three branches of the military, as well as by America’s allies, instead of developing different planes for each service.

It would be stealthy, like these F-117s, and could perform a variety of missions, such as bombing heavily defended targets and supporting troops on the ground. It would be an airplane that could take off and land in three different ways. The Marine Corps version would fly off short runways and land vertically, like their Harriers do today.

The Navy’s would fly off aircraft carriers like their current FA-18s. And the Air Force version could take off from traditional runways, like their F-16s.

TOM BURBAGE, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company: There’s lots of second-order and third-order beneficial effects of designing a common family of airplanes.

KWAME HOLMAN: Tom Burbage is an executive at Lockheed Martin, the F-35′s prime contractor. He says that, by sharing common parts and production, the cost to build and operate the airplane could be kept low.

TOM BURBAGE: The whole purpose behind F-35 was to integrate those requirements and develop a family, and lower the total cost of recapitalizing the individual services and the coalition allies.

KWAME HOLMAN: The military’s current plan is to buy 2,443 of the so-called Lightning IIs for an estimated $323 billion, making it the Pentagon’s most expensive weapons program.

By some accounts, it could end up replacing 95 percent of the U.S. combat air fleet, much of it now aging and needing to be replaced. Plans for eight allied nations to buy more than 700 planes also were touted as a way to share the costs. Its supporters claimed the F-35 was positioned to become the future of manned combat aviation.

But production costs have skyrocketed from $59 million to as much as $112 million per plane, a 60 percent to 90 percent increase in the last eight years. Research and development costs also have ballooned 40 percent. The Pentagon blames the escalation on changes to the F-35′s design and production schedule.

Recently, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Missouri Democrat Claire McCaskill vented her frustration at top Pentagon acquisition officials.

CLAIRE MCCASKILL: I need somebody to do an estimate on the problems associated with this program. I need to know whose fault it is. This is too big to fail, this program. And we’re going to push money across the table. We’re going to push back timelines. We’re going to push money across the table. And I need to figure out, I think we all need to figure out, whose fault is it?

KWAME HOLMAN: Bill Sweetman, a journalist and author of more than 30 books on military aviation technology, says the Pentagon and defense contractors underestimated the challenge of building such a complicated aircraft.

BILL SWEETMAN, journalist/author: When the Joint Strike Fighter program got started, the people who were running the program — program believed very seriously that it was possible to make three versions of this aircraft that were simply different in the way that they took off and landed. It looks like the aircraft is rather more difficult to manufacture than they hoped.

KWAME HOLMAN: Sweetman says the version of the F-35 for the Marine Corps is particularly complex and problematic to build, and that leads to cascading difficulties for the entire program.

BILL SWEETMAN: The most difficult design by far is the Marine Corps aircraft, because it has a completely separate propulsion system that’s — that actually supports the aircraft when it is taking off and landing.

KWAME HOLMAN: Lockheed Martin’s Burbage acknowledges there have been setbacks, but maintains the original idea of building one plane with three variants is sound. He says the F-35 will be stealthy, equipped with the latest electronics to fly over highly defended areas, and will be easier to operate and maintain than the aircraft it is replacing.

TOM BURBAGE: Yes, we have had some cost growth and, yes, we have had some schedule growth over time. But there is a long-term proposition associated with this program that is absolutely unique. It’s not been attempted before. And it carries through into many areas, other than just the cost of development or the cost of acquisition.

KWAME HOLMAN: But longtime defense analyst Winslow Wheeler disagrees.

WINSLOW WHEELER, Former Congressional Defense Staff: The cost on this thing is out of control, but they’re pretending it’s affordable.

KWAME HOLMAN: Wheeler worked on Capitol Hill for three decades focusing on defense issues. He says the Joint Strike Fighter was doomed from the very beginning, that it will never be affordable and should be canceled.

WINSLOW WHEELER: We’re only partway through with this thing. We have another five years of, you know, testing and development to go. We have only begun to learn about the problems. And, so, by the time this thing is done, it will be a record-breaker in terms of nightmares in costs, scheduling, performance.

KWAME HOLMAN: Bill Sweetman says the recent skyrocketing cost overruns jeopardize the whole foundation for the F-35.

BILL SWEETMAN: The idea was, you have one airplane, you buy a lot of them, you bring down the unit cost. If they can’t do that, then the whole economic basis for this program is in peril.

KWAME HOLMAN: The Pentagon recognized last fall that flight testing, manufacturing problems, and cost overruns were getting more serious.

In February, Defense Secretary Robert Gates fired the F-35′s program manager.

ROBERT GATES, U.S. secretary of defense: The progress and performance of the F-35 over the past two years has not been what it should.

KWAME HOLMAN: In March, the Pentagon increased the budget and extended the schedule for the F-35, for the fourth time since the program began. Billions more will go to improved software and to flight test more plans, and the target number of F-35s to be delivered in the next five years will be reduced by a quarter, to 361.

Testifying before the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, Defense Secretary Gates said production and cost estimates for the F-35 long have been too optimistic.

ROBERT GATES: Part of the program that we have faced in this program is overly rosy forecasts by the program office itself.

KWAME HOLMAN: Officials say a new independent team put in place last year to reform Pentagon spending now is providing more realistic estimates.

MAJ. GEN. C.D. MOORE, F-35 acting program executive officer: Your band of uncertainty decreases over time as you mature the weapons system.

KWAME HOLMAN: Major General C.D. Moore, the acting program executive officer of the F-35, says the new cost estimates are likely to be more accurate than previous ones.

MAJ. GEN. C.D. MOORE: So, I would say that, 10 years ago, we had a pretty wide band of uncertainty, cost, schedule, performance. We have a much narrower band of uncertainty now. So, I would say, going forward, why, I can look you in the eye and say, let’s talk a year from now and let me show you what we delivered this year.

KWAME HOLMAN: But problems for the F-35 remain. The GAO says its hot exhaust may damage runways and flight decks on ships, and heat buildup inside the aircraft may impede its ability to operate in hot environments.

Such issues are to be fixed while new planes are being built. Hundreds of F-35s are to be built by the end of 2015. Bill Sweetman says that approach could lead to more cost and more delay.

BILL SWEETMAN: The risk is that the early aircraft you ordered have problems in them that you haven’t found yet because you haven’t done the testing yet. So,
it goes back, essentially, into another factory. It gets pulled apart and rebuilt to the latest standard. And that is, economically, a nightmare. It’s very expensive. It’s not the way you want to do things.

KWAME HOLMAN: Critic Winslow Wheeler’s prediction is more dire, that the F-35 never will be able to fulfill its mission, because it is too heavy to fight other aircraft in the air, but too fast, thin-skinned, and lightly armed to support troops on the ground.

WINSLOW WHEELER: The history of multirole fighters, even for single services, is terrible. They do nothing well.

In effect, we will be giving our combat forces a second-rate combat tool. They will learn to live with it. Some of them will learn to love it. Some of them won’t. If we’re lucky, we will never face a really competent air force in the lifetime of this thing.

KWAME HOLMAN: But the public confidence about the F-35 program expressed by the Pentagon and Lockheed Martin has never been higher.

TOM BURBAGE: This is not an airplane that we’re going to be flying today in combat. It is an airplane that our children and our grandchildren will be flying in combat. So, we’re designing — we’re designing and building an airplane for the future, not for today.

KWAME HOLMAN: Much more on who is right about the nation’s most expensive new weapon will be known in the next few months.

From PBS NEWSHOUR

1. Chapter 4: Tom Burbage of Lockheed Martin defends the F-35 JSF from Critics
2. Chapter 3: Winslow Wheeler says F-35 was doomed from the start
3. Pros & Cons of the F-35 JSF Chapter 1

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz.: It’s not every day the morning starts with a phone call from a NASCAR driver, but that’s exactly how a 56th Maintenance Group Quality Assurance inspector began work April 8 here.

Staff Sgt. Damon Thurman’s supervisor handed him the phone and Matt Kenseth, driver of the No. 17 Crown Royal Black car, was on the other end, inviting him to be his honorary pit crew member for the Subway Fresh Fit 600 April 10 at the Phoenix International Speedway.

“I didn’t know what to say,” Sergeant Thurman said. “I don’t get overly excited, but I think this is pretty cool.”

As the recently-announced winner of the 2009 Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Thomas N. Barnes Award, which named the Air Force’s crew chief of the year, Sergeant Thurman was selected as Matt Kenseth’s honorary pit crew member and represented Luke Air Force Base.

On race day, Sergeant Thurman was welcomed in Matt Kenseth’s suite by the driver himself. Along with his guest, Staff Sgt. Charlton DuBose, a 56th MXGQA inspector, Sergeant Thurman had a front-row seat to all the action including a personal tour of the transporter and pit area, brushing shoulders with drivers, standing with the pit crew, and watching the race from the pit box with the crew chief.

Sergeant Thurman, a NASCAR fan since age 10, has attended a number of races, but none compared to this checkered flag chase.

“I enjoy going to races, and this has been extraordinary because I’ve never been in the infield nor had such an interactive, first-hand experience,” he said. “Being in the pit box, seeing the strategy and race data analysis as it occurs during the race was really cool. You see it’s a lot more than just driving around in circles as some people would say. You see the pit stops on television and they seem fast, but when you’re right there, you find out just how fast they are.

Each year Crown Royal holds a “Your Name Here 400″ program, whereby the grand-prize winner is the namesake for the spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway. This years race honors service members by having a military-themed contest in which all nominees demonstrate the core values of the military in performing a selfless act which made them a hero.

“The Crown Royal team was overwhelmed by the heroism of each and every service member who entered the ‘Your Name Here’ contest, and we are honored to have this opportunity to thank them for their service to our country,” said Rob Mason, the Crown Royal senior brand manager.

In keeping with the theme, Crown Royal and Mr. Kenseth’s team are also recognizing service members at races throughout the season, choosing Sergeant Thurman for the Subway Fresh Fit 600.

“I feel honored to have been selected and am grateful to Crown Royal and Matt Kenseth,” Sergeant Thurman said.

“He’s very humble, diligent and cares about his fellow Airmen,” said Master Sgt. Bryan Presley, 56th Maintenance Group Quality Assurance chief inspector. “It’s very easy to work with Sergeant Thurman; he always has a positive, can-do attitude and never shies away from a challenge.”

Sergeant Thurman expressed what an incredible experience it was.

“I never thought I would reap any recreational benefit from winning, but this was an awesome experience,” he said. “It sure beats the yard work I had planned.”

News Source: Auto Talk on April 22, 2010

1. MSgt. Manuel Gonzalez, 756th AMS to join the USAF Thunderbirds
2. Luke AFB Airmen invents study tool
3. Missouri Guard sending two airmen to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base

1. Executive Director & CEO – Steve Yamamori