Flaws and glitches to F-35 stealth fighters could put pilots at risk and seriously impact the jets’ ability to accomplish key parts of its missions, Defense News is reporting.
Pilots for F-35B and F-35C fighters are compelled to limit their airspeed in order to avoid damaging the jet’s airframe or stealth coating, according to Defense News. The fighters also have experienced cockpit pressure spikes that cause “excruciating” ear pain. And helmet mounted displays have contributed to difficulty in landing the F-35C on aircraft carriers.
The problems are listed in documents obtained by Defense News.
Defense News noted that by the end of this year, Defense Department officials are set to decide whether to move ahead with full-rate production. If so, the production rate will jump from 91 jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin in 2018 to more than 160 by 2023, Defense News said.
The problems outlined in the documents obtained by Defense News are listed as category 1 deficiencies. It is a designation given to major flaws impacting safety and mission effectiveness., according to Defense News.
Vice Adm. Mat Winter, the Defense Department’s F-35 program executive, told Defense News the problems don’t represent any serious risk to pilots or F-35 missions. Defense News said the program created two designations of category 1 after it was contacted.
Winter maintained there were no category 1A problems, which could result in potential loss of life. The deficiencies all fall under category 1B problems, which are all correctable at some point.
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