JSF Fuel Tests Rev Up: Lockheed Martin has begun testing of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter’s fuel system components, recently completing a “leak-free” fuel system checkout. Engineers and testers finished an extensive fuel system checkout on the first JSF and started a series of structural tests March 24. Company officials say that fuel leaks are typical for high performance fighter aircraft and believe the recent tests provide an “early indication the F-35 is a solid design.”
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
