Premium Aerotec and Lockheed Martin have agreed to identify components for the F-35 that can be manufactured using additive manufacturing technologies.

The stated goal of the two companies is to further reduce the manufacturing costs of the F-35, the world's only fifth-generation multipurpose fighter.

The two companies are convinced that additive manufacturing processes such as metallic 3D printing can also help to increase the production rate of the F-35 and achieve the ambitious production targets even faster.

"We look forward to working with Lockheed Martin," says Premium Aerotec CEO Thomas Ehm during the signing. "This collaboration is a first step for our company in the important US defense market. In addition, it's a great opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of Premium Aerotec's state-of-the-art 3D printing products and processes in combination with state-of-the-art combat aircraft technology. "

"We see tremendous opportunities to further reduce additive costs, improve quality, and increase speed throughout the F-35 program," said Greg Ulmer, vice president of Lockheed Martin and general manager of the F-35. program. "The F-35 production incorporates the world's most advanced fighter manufacturing techniques. By working with partners such as Premium Aerotec, we will integrate additional automation and additive manufacturing processes to ensure that we continue to meet our cost, quality and efficiency goals in the future. "

With stealth technology, state-of-the-art sensors, supersonic speed, high weapon capacity and outstanding range, the F-35 is the most powerful, safest and best connected aircraft in the world. The F-35's unique ability to collect, analyze, share and share pilots via Sensor Fusion, strengthens all flying, floating and ground-based systems, enabling mission forces to complete their mission and mission sure to return.