Victorian-based Marand Precision Engineering has been selected as the supplier for a global contract to build full size F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) training aids for program partners to use world-wide.

This achievement will see Marand as the sole supplier to prime contractor Lockheed Martin, for the detailed design and manufacture of the F-35 Engine and Lift Fan Removal and Installation Trainer (ELFRIT). The initial ELFRIT will be delivered to the US and will be used to train maintenance crews in the precision tasks of removing and installing engines and lift fans.

"ELFRIT might be required at a number of the major F-35 sustainment bases worldwide."

Marand hopes that further examples of ELFRIT might be required at a number of the major F-35 sustainment bases worldwide.

Head of the Joint Strike Fighter Program within CASG, Air Vice-Marshal Leigh Gordon, said Marand had been an industry leader in the program so far.

“Marand has been an extraordinary performer in the global F-35 program already, manufacturing the F-35 vertical tails, being the original equipment manufacturer for the complex F-35 engine trailer, supplying thousands of production tools and now sole supplier for the ELFRIT.”

Acknowledging the successful and increased participation of Australian industry overall on the global F-35 program, AVM Gordon said Defence expects there will be further opportunities within Australia to provide regional and global support for F-35 systems and components.

“Australian companies have been successfully awarded $US554.5 million worth of production and development contracts as at December last year. This figure represented an increase of almost 30 per cent over the previous 12 months.”

Defence estimates that Australian industry contribution to the F-35 program production, subject to continued industry competitiveness, will reach $US2 billion by 2022-23, with further opportunities anticipated beyond this time.

The F-35 program demands industry provides continuous quality and value to keep their place in the supply chain which in turn is driving outcomes in capability and affordability for global F-35 partners and customers including Australia.

“Australian industry success in the F-35 global supply chains reflects the intent of the recently released Defence Industry Policy Statement particularly in regards to driving competitiveness and export potential,” AVM Gordon said.

This announcement builds on recent significant achievements for Marand including multiple F-35 contracts and a prestigious award from Head of the Australian JSF Program for exceptional leadership and industry contribution in the international F-35 Program.

Marand expects to complete the design phase mid-2017 and to deliver the first unit late 2018.