Assembly Lines: Lockheed Martin Considers a Moving Assembly Line
FORT WORTH, TX-The first-ever continuous moving assembly line for producing fighter jets is being explored by engineers at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. Adopting such an approach could increase production efficiency, reduce floor space and avoid an estimated $300 million in expenses over the life of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program.
The F-35 is a stealthy, supersonic multirole fighter designed to replace a wide range of aging fighter and strike aircraft. Three variants derived from a common design will ensure that it meets the performance needs of the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy and allied defense forces worldwide, while staying within strict affordability targets. The first F-35 is scheduled for completion in mid-2005, with first flight planned for late that year.