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Lockheed Martin Promises F-35 Upgrade at Half the Cost

4/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Lockheed Martin is set to revolutionize the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, pledging to deliver 80% of the F-47's capabilities at half the price by leveraging innovations from the NGAD program. This comes after their defeat to Boeing in the NGAD race. Meanwhile, Canada grapples with political pressures that could jeopardize its F-35 procurement plans.

History

Historical Context

Lockheed Martin's push to enhance the F-35 follows a historical trend in Canadian defense procurement. In the 1970s, Canada faced similar pressures to modernize its military, leading to the controversial selection of the F/A-18 Hornet. Past procurement challenges continue to shape current defense strategies and decisions.

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Story summary

Lockheed Martin is set to revolutionize the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, pledging to deliver 80% of the F-47's capabilities at half the price by leveraging innovations from the NGAD program. This comes after their defeat to Boeing in the NGAD race. Meanwhile, Canada grapples with political pressures that could jeopardize its F-35 procurement plans.

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