Wrong fasteners on 100s of F-35s

Hundreds of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters may have the wrong fasteners - titanium instead of Inconel – installed in “critical areas” of the stealthy, fifth-generation jet, according to the results of a Defense Contract Management Agency report. The jets’ builder, Lockheed Martin, says the problem may not need to be fixed. Inconel is a nickel and chromium alloy that is to be used in locations where greater strength and corrosion resistance are required, according to the F-35 Joint Program Office. Titanium bolts are used in areas where its strength and lightness help reduce weight. Titanium, however, has a lower shear strength than Inconel. Both types of fasteners are called “eddie bolts” and appear similar except for a numbered stamped. Titanium bolts cost around $5 each. Inconel parts cost about $20. The JPO’s Jan. 9 conclusion was that “no aircraft operating restrictions or inspections are necessary at this time.” The JPO will release a fleet guidance report after the completion of a Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) analysis being performed by Lockheed. Incorrect bolts were also found at the Italian F-35 assembly facility, but not the one in Japan. Lockheed plans to submit its report to the DCMA and JPO in February. (Source: AF Magazine 01/30/20) Add a 25mm mounted gun - with "unacceptable accuracy" to the problems of Lockheed Martin F-35 program, including more than 800 software flaws. The 25mm gun on Air Force (F-35A) variant had “unacceptable” accuracy in hitting ground targets and is mounted in housing that’s cracking, according to DoD test and evaluation office. (Source: Bloomberg 01/30/20) https://www.airforcemag.com/lockheed-potentially-mixed-up-structural-fasteners-in-most-f-35s/