Curtiss-Wright Announces Successful Verification of Laser Peening Process on Lockheed Martin F-35B Fighter Jet

Rhea-AI Summary

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE:CW) announced the successful verification of its Laser Peening process on the F-35 fighter jet's airframe components. This technology aims to extend the life expectancy of the F-35B, used by the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Conducted at the Fleet Readiness Center East, the first F-35B has returned to service, making FRCE the first facility capable of on-site laser peening modifications. A second facility in Utah is scheduled to process its first F-35B in April 2022. This innovation supports Curtiss-Wright’s commitment to aerospace and defense technologies.

Positive

• Successful verification of Laser Peening process on F-35 aircraft, enhancing durability.
• First F-35B returned to service post-treatment, demonstrating effective collaboration.
• Curtiss-Wright identified as a key technology provider in defense sector.

Negative

• None.

DAVIDSON, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW) today announced the successful verification of the Curtiss-Wright Laser Peening process on the airframe components of the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet. Curtiss-Wright has been selected to help extend the life expectancy of the F-35B, the short takeoff-vertical landing (STOVL) variant flown by the U.S. Marine Corps and other allied nations around the world, by utilizing its critical Laser Peening process. The verification was implemented by the Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, NC and the first F-35B to undergo the treatment has been successfully returned to the fleet.

“Curtiss-Wright is honored to be part of this milestone through the utilization of our critical surface treatment applications, building on our commercial and industrial capabilities to support the military’s premier fighter jet program,” said Lynn M. Bamford, President and CEO of Curtiss-Wright Corporation. “We are excited to be part of the team that returned the first laser peened F-35B back to active service, and we look forward to a long and successful relationship with all of the stakeholders involved on other F-35 variants.”

The Laser Peening process was developed by the Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies Division, a leading global provider of highly engineered surface treatments and analytical services. Laser Peening strengthens the aircraft’s frame without adding any additional material or weight, which would reduce its capability by limiting its fuel or weapons carrying capacity. The technology has wide applications across the defense, commercial aerospace, commercial nuclear and industrial markets.

A recently published FRCE press release talks about the successful completion of the verification and return to service of the first aircraft to undergo the procedure. In the press release Ike Rettenmair, the interim Fixed Wing Division director at FRCE, said “the teamwork between FRCE, the F-35 Joint Program Office, Lockheed Martin, Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies and Northrup Grumman Corporation helped make the effort successful. We have a great partnership between the working entities and that makes all the difference.”

The verification marks FRCE as the first facility in the world capable of conducting on-site laser peening modification on an F-35 aircraft. A second facility, Ogden Air Logistics Complex at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is now also fully operational and the first F-35B will be processed at that facility starting in April of 2022, followed shortly thereafter by the F-35C.

For more information about Curtiss-Wright’s Surface Technologies Division, please visit www.cwst.com/.

About Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE:CW) is a global integrated business that provides highly engineered products, solutions and services mainly to Aerospace & Defense markets, as well as critical technologies in demanding Commercial Power, Process and Industrial markets. We leverage a workforce of 7,800 highly skilled employees who develop, design and build what we believe are the best engineered solutions to the markets we serve. Building on the heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright has a long tradition of providing innovative solutions through trusted customer relationships. For more information, visit www.curtisswright.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220324005587/en/

Jim Ryan

(704) 869-4621

jim.ryan@curtisswright.com

Source: Curtiss-Wright Corporation

FAQ

What is the significance of Curtiss-Wright's Laser Peening process for the F-35B?

It enhances the longevity of the F-35B's airframe components without adding weight.

When will the second facility for F-35 processing in Utah be operational?

The first F-35B at the Utah facility is scheduled for processing starting April 2022.

What does the verification of the Laser Peening process mean for Curtiss-Wright Corporation?

It establishes Curtiss-Wright as a leading provider of advanced surface treatment technologies in aerospace.

How does the Laser Peening technology impact the F-35's capabilities?

It strengthens the aircraft's frame, allowing it to maintain its fuel and weapons capacity.