Lockheed Martin plans to initiate some F-17 production programs at its Johnstown, Penn., plant, including the aft engine access covers, engine access doors, F-1 fuel tank, and inlet. While the plant currently produces some F-16 component and sub-assemblies, the increased scope of operations will result in 80 new jobs there, and Lockheed plans to lease a new building to accommodate the expanded activity.
Some of the work will begin this year, but most of the new hires will begin in 2022.
The F-16 is a fourth-generation fighter jet developed by General Dynamics and produced by Lockheed since 1993. The single-engine, multirole fighter aircraft is in service with the U.S. Air Force and 24 other allied nations.
Lockheed’s Johnstown operation includes manufacturing, laboratory, and demonstration factory spaces, along with offices, and conference/training rooms. It was developed in 1990 and operated under a lease until Lockheed acquired it from Concurrent Technologies Corp. in 2009. The current employment total is almost 400, according to Lockheed Martin.
The Johnstown complex also manufactures component parts for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, the F-22 fighter jets, and the C-130 military transport aircraft.
Wayne Davis, director at Lockheed Martin’s Johnstown site, explained that continued demand for new F-16s requires development of additional parts manufacturing sites.
“Johnstown’s selection for this new work reflects the highly skilled workforce in the area, a record of quality production and the space available to expand,” according to Davis.
F-16 parts produced in Johnstown will be shipped to Greenville, S.C., for final assembly and integration to F-16s on the production line.
