Rheinmetall AG will participate in the construction of the F-35 fighter jet. Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman have signed a letter of intent with Rheinmetall AG as a promising strategic source of supply for the F-35 centre fuselage. This potential partnership would establish a second F-35 centre fuselage integrated assembly line (IAL) in Germany, expanding the significant role European industry plays in the F-35 programme.
“Lockheed Martin has been a committed partner to Germany for more than 50 years. The F-35 programme will continue to strengthen our strategic partnerships with key industry partners for years to come,” said Mike Shoemaker, Vice President of F-35 Customer Programmes at Lockheed Martin. “The F-35 centre fuselage production in Germany will be vital to meet the growing global demand for F-35s, which play a vital role in 21st century security.”
Northrop Grumman is a principal partner on the Lockheed Martin F-35 programme. In addition to manufacturing the jet’s centre fuselage and wing skins, the company is also responsible for developing, producing and maintaining sensor systems, avionics and aircraft and training software.
“The centre fuselage IAL is recognised as a state-of-the-art facility supported by technologies exclusive to Northrop Grumman, seamlessly blending automation with our expertise in aerospace tooling,” said Glenn Masukawa, Vice President and F-35 programme manager, Northrop Grumman. “Engaging with Rheinmetall demonstrates our commitment to collaborate with international partners to manufacture advanced aircraft.”
