Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed a component for the outer-wing set of the F-35 stealth fighter jet that will make it invisible to radar, according to an announcement by the company.
The company said it will develop a new production line for the next 20 years, which is anticipated to begin producing outer wing sets at the beginning of 2019 as a subcontractor for Lockheed Martin, and is expected to generate revenues of $2.5 billion in the next 10 to 15 years.
“The construction of the new production line significantly upgrades IAI’s technological capabilities, automation and robotics, and will enable the company to establish itself as a major player in the military and civilian aerostructures,” IAI said in a statement read a statement by IAI. An estimated 811 pairs of F-35A wings are expected to be produced by 2034, and will include a unique Automatic Fiber Placement material that is woven of tiny threads. This gives planes the ability to evade radar detection. The F-35 fighter jet contains parts from several Israeli defense companies, including Elbit System Cyclone, which made the center fuselage composite components and Elbit Systems Ltd., which made the pilots’ helmets.
Israel’s Air Force owns 14 F-35Is, and is expected to receive a total of 50 planes to fill two full squadrons by 2024.
Israel may buy a third squadron, or the new Boeing F-15I.
