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.”
Secretary of Defense Austin Lloyd III met with his counterparts from Australia, Japan and the Philippines to discuss bolstering defense ties on May 2. The discussion included plans for joint F-35 exercises with Japan and Australia in the coming years.