Elbit Systems Ltd. announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Elbit Systems - Cyclone Ltd., has been approved as a manufacturer on the Qualified Products List for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

The approvals come after a series of successful qualification tests carried out by Lockheed Martin as part of a seven-year agreement for Elbit - Cyclone to deliver 16 unique components and assemblies for the JSF program.

Composite parts approved for the JSF include various aeronautical carbon-epoxy laminates and honeycomb sandwich panels for the F-35 family of single-seat, multi-role fighter jets.

Yoram Shmuely, Elbit Systems Aerospace Division's General Manager, commented: "Elbit Systems is proud to be a supplier for this prestigious program. This approval represents a significant milestone towards achieving serial production, and hopefully will lead to the receipt of orders for additional F-35 composite parts and assemblies. The recent approval of these major aviation manufacturers acknowledges the trust and recognition Elbit - Cyclone has established in the field of composite components for aerial platforms, and we believe it will pave the way for further business opportunities in this fast-growing market in which advanced technologies and constant innovation play a crucial role".