First F-35 bound for Luke AFB

The 100th Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the first aircraft destined for Luke Air Force Base, sits on the assembly line at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. It is expected to arrive at Luke Air Force Base early next year. AF-41 is one of 126 F-35s in various stages of production worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo/John Wilson)

First F-35 bound for Luke AFB

Published Aug. 2, 2013
Lockheed-Martin

FORT WORTH, Texas -- The 100th Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the first aircraft destined for Luke Air Force Base, has entered the last stage of final assembly. This conventional takeoff and landing aircraft, known as AF-41, is scheduled to arrive at the base next year. During final assembly, the aircraft structure is completed, and electrical and hydraulic systems are added. Additionally, these systems are tested in preparation for fuel systems checks and engine runs. The final steps prior to acceptance by the Air Force include a series of checkout flights leading to the aircraft entering the service's F-35 fleet. AF-41 is one of 126 F-35s in various stages of production worldwide.

In June, the Air Force announced its decision to increase the number of squadrons at Luke AFB to six with 144 aircraft, which will make it the largest F-35 base worldwide. In addition to training U.S. pilots, Luke will also serve as an F-35A International Training site. With 14 F-35 suppliers in the state of Arizona, the program has an economic impact of $98 million.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 116,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation's net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.