GKN Aerospace has revealed the successful delivery of the first set of wheels and brakes assemblies for the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. These components were serviced and maintained at GKN Fokker’s landing gear facility in The Netherlands. This delivery signifies the initial shipment under the contract to service and maintain wheels, brakes and strut assemblies for the F-35 fleet in Europe.
Shawn Black, President of GKN Aerospace Defense Business, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This achievement represents a significant milestone in expanding the F-35 industrial base, reducing maintenance duration in Europe and strengthening international collaboration within the programme. We eagerly anticipate our ongoing partnership with Lockheed Martin in supporting this crucial multi-role fighter across Europe and the Pacific.”
GKN Aerospace’s Fokker division secured the contract from the Joint Programme Office to maintain and service the F-35 landing gear. The selection was based on Fokker’s extensive experience in landing gear maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for other platforms, including the F-16 and NH-90 helicopter.
In addition to its maintenance activities, GKN Aerospace’s landing gear business is also engaged in the design and manufacture of the F-35 arresting gear and the development of the F-35 composite landing gear drag brace.
GKN Aerospace has been a key participant in the F-35 programme since its inception, contributing to various components such as electrical wiring interconnected systems, flaperons, in-flight opening doors, cockpit canopies, airframe parts and arresting gear for all F-35 aircraft.
