National Defence and Canadian Forces News Release: Today, the Honourable Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence, made the following statement following Japan’s decision to purchase the next-generation F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Like Canada, countries are choosing this state-of-the-art aircraft over other fighters including the F-18 Super Hornet and the Eurofighter Typhoon. “Our government’s priority is delivering our Canadian Forces the aircraft they agree gives them the best possible chance of mission success well into the 21st century,” said Minister Fantino. “Today’s announcement ... Read more

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The Japan Ministry of Defense has announced its selection of the Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Lightning II as the Japan Air Self Defense Force’s (JASDF) next generation fighter aircraft, following the F-X competitive bid process. The F-35A conventional takeoff and landing variant (CTOL) was offered by the United States government with participation from Lockheed Martin. The initial contract will be for four jets in Japan Fiscal Year 2012, which begins April 1, 2012. “We are honored by the confidence the Japanese government has ... Read more

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The first international Lockheed Martin [NYSE:LMT] F-35 Lightning II rolled out of the factory Sunday evening. The United Kingdom Ministry of Defence will use the short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) jet, known as BK-1, for training and operational tests. Lockheed Martin photo by Randy Crites. BK-1 will undergo functional fuel system checks before being transported to the flight line for ground and flight tests in the coming months. The jet is scheduled to be delivered in 2012. “This first F-35 for the first international program ... Read more

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StandardAero, one of Canada’s largest aircraft sustainment companies, announced today the official opening of its Ottawa office. This opening coincides with the company’s 100th anniversary celebration going on throughout 2011. In addition to its full complement of nose-to-tail business aviation services, component repair, helicopters and commercial aviation MRO throughout Canada, the U.S., Asia and the South Pacific, StandardAero’s Canadian operations in Winnipeg, also support Canada’s defence forces by performing engine and propulsion maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) on Canadian military aircraft, including ... Read more

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Updated (as of November 8, 2011) F-35 Lightning II Program Status and Fast Facts now posted. Read more

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