Lockheed Martin has received a $74.2 million contract modification from the US Navy to incorporate UK- and Italy-specific weapon capabilities into the F-35A and F-35B under the Block 4 upgrade program. The contract includes system integration, development testing, and the installation of a common tactical data recorder across the F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C fleets, further enhancing the fighter’s operational capabilities.
Work will be conducted primarily in Samlesbury, United Kingdom, and Fort Worth, Texas, with additional activities at other US locations, and is expected to conclude by December 2032. While the contract announcement does not disclose the specific weapons, the UK has been advancing integration of the Meteor air-to-air missile and SPEAR 3 air-to-surface missile for the F-35B, whereas Italy is integrating the Meteor on its F-35A fleet. Italy’s involvement also extends to operating the Cameri final assembly and maintenance facility, which supports F-35 production and sustainment for European customers.
