DOD, Lockheed finalizing smaller-scope F-35 sustainment contract

摘要

The Defense Department and Lockheed Martin have negotiated a significantly smaller scope for a forthcoming performance-based logistics sustainment contract for the F-35, opting for a "bridge" contract the company expects will yield less savings but instill confidence in its performance and set a foundation for a full PBL. The company in 2019 proposed a fixed-price, five-year sustainment contract for the Joint Strike Fighter, offering to invest $1.5 billion in spare parts and capacity that it projected would save about $2.5 billion, $1 billion of which would be returned to the government. Lockheed's Vice President for F-35 Sustainment Ken Merchant told reporters Tuesday that after evaluating the company's proposal, the Pentagon last March proposed a reduced scope that will shape a request for proposals that is expected to be released this spring. Lockheed is now working with the government to help shape the details of that solicitation.