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F-35 Project Boosts FRCE with Expanded Capabilities

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F-35 project expands capabilities at FRCE

The recent expansion at Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) marks a substantial increase in capacity to handle the escalating modification needs of the F-35 aircraft. With added space and aircraft bays, the facility aims to significantly bolster the nation’s defense readiness. Commanding Officer Capt. Randy Berti emphasized that this development will enhance the depot’s capabilities and reinforce national security measures.

“Today’s achievement is pivotal for F-35 mission readiness, benefiting our warfighters,” expressed Berti. “This aircraft, being the most advanced in the world, requires impeccable mission capability, and our expansion represents a serious commitment to maintaining its operational excellence.” According to Berti, the project fortifies their ability to meet the ever-growing demands of the F-35 program, ensuring timely and quality support globally.

Since 2013, FRCE has been a central hub for the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II maintenance, also handling the F-35A and F-35C variants for the Air Force and Navy. From its debut in F-35 capabilities, the facility has inducted 158 aircraft, with 145 dispatched back into service. The new project plans to encompass an additional 337,000 hours of work until 2028, promising to enhance operational efficiency.

The F-35 Joint Program Office, led by Jeanie Holder, had envisioned this expansion as early as 2022. FRCE stood out due to its proven performance and skilled workforce. Holder applauded the seamless collaboration and dedicated effort by all contributors to meet crucial deadlines, emphasizing their role in filling the expanded dock with operational aircraft soon.

FRCE has progressively broadened its F-35 platform support since its inception. Declaring capability on its first component in 2020, the facility has expanded its capacitated components to 76. This trajectory continues as FRCE achieved a landmark by assembling an F-35B Lightning II lift fan clutch outside its original manufacturing site.

Further developments are expected as FRCE ramps up its vertical lift fan facilities and sustenance capabilities in the coming years. North Carolina’s largest maintenance provider, FRCE, is home to over 4,000 personnel and exceeds annual revenue of $1 billion, playing a crucial role within the U.S. Navy and the greater defense framework.

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