The United States has restarted the delivery of F-35 jets equipped with interim upgrades after months of suspension due to software delays, according to senior officials quoted by Reuters on Saturday. This decision includes withholding partial payments until full software enhancements are completed.
Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall announced the acceptance of deliveries featuring the Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) upgrades, a program by Lockheed Martin aimed at enhancing display and processing capabilities.
“While TR-3 is an interim solution lacking full functionality, it represents a significant step forward allowing us to resume deliveries,” Kendall explained during a briefing at the Royal International Air Tattoo in Britain.
The TR-3 initiative, part of the broader Block 4 upgrade for the stealth jets, focuses on both hardware and software improvements. Kendall acknowledged that while hardware progress is satisfactory, software development has faced setbacks.
“We are prepared to accept aircraft with the understanding that additional software increments are necessary for full operational capability,” Kendall added.
Andrew Hunter, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, emphasized the decision to resume deliveries ahead of complete software readiness was to prevent further delays affecting critical features.
“Delays in finalizing capabilities could hinder progress on subsequent necessary upgrades,” Hunter stated, confirming that a portion of final payments for each jet would be withheld until all contracted enhancements are delivered.
As of now, approximately $7 million per jet has been withheld from final payments, with each F-35 aircraft valued at around $100 million.
Hunter highlighted the positive collaboration fostered among program stakeholders during the TR-3 completion phase, underscoring efforts to streamline processes for the forthcoming Block 4 upgrades.
“We are committed to overcoming barriers to ensure timely completion of Block 4 capabilities,” Hunter affirmed, addressing challenges and reinforcing cooperation among defense industry participants.
