Lockheed Martin has named Al Norman as its new chief test pilot for the F-35 strike fighter program. Norman, a veteran experimental test pilot for the company, replaces Jon Beesley, who retired Jan. 31. “I feel very honored and privileged to be named the F-35 chief test pilot,” said Norman in Lockheed’s release. He added, “This is a very fast-paced and challenging time for the F-35 program. I am thrilled and humbled to be working with such a tremendously talented team that spans industry and government across the world.” Norman joined Lockheed in 1999 after 23 years as an Air Force fighter pilot and test pilot. He first flew for the company on the F-22 program at Edwards AFB, Calif., as part of Edwards’ Combined Test Force. He has more than 6,000 flying hours and is also Lockheed’s chief pilot for the T-50 program.
Navy CCA Program’s Shape Coming into Focus
Oct. 17, 2025
In announcing its Navy Collaborative Combat Aircraft contract, General Atomics has provided some clues as to where the service is heading with its version of an armed, autonomous fighter escort. It will likely be quite different from the Air Force version.
