The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme office has resolved the aircraft’s wing structure problem.

During US Department of Defense (DoD) testing, the root rib developed cracks after just 2,800 hours, compared with a required life of 8,000 flight hours.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

JSF programme spokesman Joe Dellavedova said the crack was consistent with analytical predictions, both in terms of location and life.

“Resolving durability test article findings is a well-understood process. Durability testing is conducted early in the development of any new aircraft to avoid costly sustainment issues later in the life of the aircraft.

“Problems are found and corrected in development rather than fleet service,” Dellavedova added.

The JSF programme will incorporate new modified forward root rib design in to 30 conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) and 34 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The forward root rib modification is expected to take about 45 days to complete, according to DefenseNews.

Airforce Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Airforce Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.


Excellence in Action
Discover how Virtualitics is transforming mission readiness with explainable AI, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision intelligence across the U.S. Department of Defense through its AI-powered Integrated Readiness Optimization suite, for which it has won the Innovation and Business Expansion awards.

Discover the Impact