The F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) and Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the F-35 Lightning II, have announced that deliveries of the first Technology Refresh-3 (TR-3) configured F-35 aircraft began today.
Two F-35A Lightning II aircraft were delivered, one to Dannelly Field, Alabama, and one to Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
“We have initiated a phased approach to the delivery of TR-3 F-35 aircraft,” said Lt. Gen. Mike Schmidt, the JPO’s Program Executive Officer.
“The first phase will deliver jets with an initial training capability in July and August. By the end of August, we will be delivering jets with a robust combat training capability, as we continue towards the delivery of full TR-3 combat capabilities in 2025. Our focus has been on providing our customers with aircraft that are stable, capable, and maintainable, and this phased approach does that.”
The newly delivered aircraft follow standard government acceptance procedures that include final airworthiness certifications and check-out flights.
“TR-3 and Block 4 represent a critical evolution in capability and their full development remains a top priority for us,” said Bridget Lauderdale, vice president and general manager of the F-35 Program, Lockheed Martin. “These and further software updates over the life of the program will ensure the F-35 continues to be an effective deterrent and the cornerstone of joint all-domain operations now and decades into the future.”
“I am extremely proud of all the hard work the government and industry team have put into the delivery of TR-3 configured F-35s.This is an important first step, and although much work remains, I am confident our team will work tirelessly to achieve the desired and necessary results that our warfighters, allies and customers require.” Schmidt said.
What does this all mean?
The Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) upgrade for the F-35 brings substantial improvements to its computing power. These enhancements include advanced sensor suites that boost the aircraft’s ability to detect and respond to threats. Additionally, when integrated, the F-35 gains upgraded long-range precision weapons, allowing it to strike targets more accurately from greater distances.
Another critical aspect of the TR-3 upgrade is the enhancement of the F-35’s electronic warfare systems, making the jet more adept at countering and surviving against sophisticated threats. Improved data fusion capabilities enable better analysis and sharing of battlefield information, enhancing the jet’s effectiveness in coordinated combat operations.
At the heart of the TR-3 upgrade is a significant increase in processing power and memory capacity. This boost allows the F-35 to run cutting-edge software necessary for modern warfare. These comprehensive improvements impact almost every feature of the aircraft, enhancing its safety, stability, and performance and ensuring the F-35 remains at the pinnacle of military aviation technology. In theory, anyway.