Inside the Air Force highlights

By John Liang / March 2, 2018 at 10:12 AM

Some must-reads from this week's issue of Inside the Air Force:

1. The head of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program told reporters this week that while negotiations with prime contractor Lockheed Martin for the next lot of low-rate initial production jets is progressing, he has been disappointed with a lack of collaboration with the company to significantly lower the aircraft's unit cost.

Full story: F-35 PEO: Lack of collaboration from Lockheed slowing Lot 11 negotiations

2. Officials at the Air Force's top weapons suppliers say they are looking for new ways to streamline munitions production as demand grows and the service focuses on more advanced adversaries.

Full story: Industry aims to streamline weapons production as quantities grow

3. A new small launch procurement line in the Air Force's fiscal year 2019 budget request may indicate the service is positioning itself to respond to anticipated growth in the small satellite market.

Full story: New small launch procurement effort shows USAF response to growing market

4. ORLANDO, FL -- Sikorsky is working toward the maiden flight of its HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopter as it begins assembling the fleet's first aircraft in anticipation of the start of low-rate production in fiscal year 2019.

Full story: Sikorsky looks to first CRH flight this year with LRIP on tap

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