F-35 costs soar by $44bln amid technical complications: Report

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
13 Dec 2023 12:07
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The Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program faces a dire situation exacerbated by several factors, including unexpected engine wear issues.

Visitors look at a full-size replica model of a Lockheed Martin multirole fighter F35 during Farnborough International Air Show, Farnborough, England, Monday, July 14, 2014 (AP)

A recent report released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) showed that the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program, after 18 years of development and deployment, is grappling with soaring costs, unforeseen delays, and technical complications.

The GAO's report revealed that the costs of the F-35 program have skyrocketed by at least $44 billion, further exacerbating concerns about its financial sustainability. Top officials overseeing the project confirmed to Congress that new delays continue to emerge, with no immediate resolution in sight.

Notably, the report pointed to unanticipated challenges affecting the aircraft's engine. The report notes that overheating puts strain on the engine.

"Extra heat is increasing the wear on the engine, reducing the engine's life, and adding a projected $38 billion in maintenance costs over the life of the aircraft," the GAO report read.

Furthermore, the ambitious $10 billion Block 4 program, designed to modernize the F-35 and enhance its capabilities to counter challenges from major peer competitor countries such as Russia and China, faces further setbacks. The GAO warned that the program will now cost 60% more than its original hefty price tag.

During a House Armed Services subcommittee hearing, Department of Defense F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) US Air Force Lieutenant General Michael Schmidt, the Director of the Department of Defense F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO), admitted uncertainty regarding the resolution timeline for the $1.6 billion Technology Refresh-3 (TR-3) cockpit electronics software upgrade. This upgrade, responsible for halting new aircraft deliveries since July, remains plagued by unresolved issues, hindering the program's progress.

Back in September, a senior Defense Ministry official in the Czech Republic announced that Lockheed Martin would be offering the country a discounted price if they were to sign a contract to purchase 24 fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter jets.

“Today I can say that the price [for fighter jets] will be much lower, we will present this price to the government. We will target [the price reduction] by about 10 percent,” the official said, adding that it is impossible to state the exact price since talks regarding contract details are still underway.

The first F-35 fighters intended for the Czech Republic are anticipated to be manufactured in 2029, while training of flight and ground personnel is due to begin afterward.