Lockheed Martin yesterday delivered the 134 'F-35 of the year, thus exceeding the target of 131 aircraft set for 2019, shared by government and industry.
One hundred thirty-four aircraft delivered represent a 47% increase over 2018, with an increase in production of almost 200% over 2016. Lockheed Martin plans to deliver 141 F-35s next year and is ready to increase the volume of annual production up to the production peak expected in 2023.
"This result testifies that the F-35 program is ready to face the production phase at full speed, continuing to focus on improving the deliveries of the entire weapon system." said Greg Ulmer, Lockheed Martin vice president and general manager of the F-35 program. "We have met the set annual delivery targets for three years in a row and continue to increase production rates, improving efficiency and reducing costs. The F-35 is the most advanced fighter in the world and we are now able to to guarantee a fifth generation weapon system at a cost equal to or less than a fourth generation less performing aircraft. "
The 134th aircraft is a short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) model "B" for the United States Marine Corps. In 2019, deliveries included 81 F-35s for the United States, 30 for international partner nations and 23 for Foreign Military Sales customers.
