Exelis has received a low rate initial production (LRIP) contract from Lockheed Martin Corp. to continue supplying pneumatic carriage and release technology for the F-35 Lightning II.

Under the contract, Exelis will produce and deliver the eighth lot of LRIP BRU-67, BRU-68 and LAU-147 systems for the fifth-generation fighter jet. Exelis has already supplied more than 1300 carriage and release systems, spare parts and support for all three variants of the F-35, as well as antenna technology and lightweight composite parts.

“With each production award, we make progress toward ensuring every F-35 is equipped with the lightweight pneumatic carriage and release technology it needs,” said Pete Martin, vice president and general manager of the Exelis electronic attack and release systems business. “We are firmly committed to supplying these cutting-edge systems to help the aircrews succeed in their missions.”

Production has begun, with the first deliveries planned for April 2016.