Deployment of Latest F-35 Configuration Possibly Delayed Until 2025, Reports Indicate

Reports suggest that the deployment of the latest F-35 configuration might face delays until 2025. This setback could impact military operations and procurement schedules, potentially influencing defense strategies and international alliances. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation for its implications on defense capabilities and geopolitical dynamics.

US government auditors have revealed that the latest technical configuration of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter is facing further delays, with readiness for service now anticipated by 2025.

Lockheed Martin has encountered challenges for over a year in resolving technical issues related to the Technical Refresh 3 (TR-3) package, aimed at enhancing the jet's onboard computing capabilities with new hardware and software.

The delays in certifying TR-3 systems prompted the Pentagon to halt most new F-35 deliveries in July 2023, a suspension that persists. Consequently, Lockheed's aircraft delivery numbers have dwindled, with fewer than 100 jets handed over in 2023 and none in the first quarter of 2024.

Independent auditors at the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) have cast doubt on the readiness of TR-3-configured F-35s, predicting that they will not be prepared for service until 2025.

On May 16th, the agency issued a report assessing the current status of the F-35 program, which encompasses evaluations of the TR-3 certification process as well as independent initiatives aimed at upgrading the jet's single engine and onboard power and cooling system.

The report highlights several setbacks concerning TR-3, including production and quality concerns at the subcontractor responsible for supplying new integrated core processors, as well as ongoing issues with operating software functionality.

According to the GAO, these challenges collectively will postpone the complete rollout of TR-3 with its intended new capabilities until 2025. This projected timeline isn't entirely surprising, as Lockheed's CEO had previously made a similar forecast in April.

Software instability emerges as a major issue, with the GAO specifically noting prevalent problems with the radar and electronic warfare systems.

The report unveils concerning issues faced by test pilots, who have had to reboot entire radar and electronic warfare systems mid-flight to restore functionality. Additionally, problems with onboard hardware and software for data recording have complicated efforts to swiftly diagnose glitches.

With TR-3 activity nearly a year behind the original target completion date of July 2023 and still beset by significant challenges, Lockheed intends to introduce an interim version of the package to expedite F-35 deliveries. This interim version, termed "Release 1," is described as "combat training-capable" and will allow pilots, maintainers, and squadrons to begin preparations for operational use once the full software load gains approval. Lockheed's CEO, James Taiclet, announced this plan during an April earnings call, expressing confidence in starting deliveries of these aircraft in the third quarter of 2024, commencing in July.

Current flight-test activities utilize 95% of the Release 1 configuration's full software load, providing optimism for progress. While the interim Release 1 software will facilitate the resumption of accepting new F-35 aircraft, it will not introduce any new capabilities, according to the GAO.

Lockheed plans to commence installation of the interim software package into aircraft in June, following the conclusion of flight testing. This aligns with Taiclet's forecast for a third-quarter resumption in deliveries. Despite the prolonged halt in turnovers, Lockheed has maintained its full production rate of F-35s, aiming to recoup lost revenue during this period. The company has assembled over 1,000 jets, with approximately 990 already delivered.

Source: Flightglobal‍