JOHNSON CITY, NY, September 10th, 1998 -- Lockheed Martin Control Systems has been selected to develop the Vehicle Management Computer for Lockheed Martin's Joint Strike Fighter X-35 Concept Demonstration program. Lockheed Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems of Fort Worth, Texas, selected Control Systems to develop the computer and perform related systems integration work over an 18-month period. "We are very excited to be part of the Joint Strike Fighter demonstration and hopeful of expanding our presence on the JSF platform," said James Scanlon, Control Systems president. Control Systems, a leading producer of aircraft and engine controls, is pursuing other JSF opportunities in electric actuation and electrical power systems.

Control Systems' arrangement with Tactical Aircraft Systems calls for the development and integration of the Vehicle Management Computer's modules, software and test equipment. Scanlon called the 18-month performance period "a critical period where the work of many dedicated people is focused on having a successful, on-time first flight."

Lockheed Martin Control Systems is a world leader in electronics systems for global defense, civil and commercial markets. Control Systems designs and manufactures flight-critical flight, mission and engine controls for the world aircraft and space market. Control products from Lockheed Martin are aboard the C-17, F/A-18, JAS39, V-22, Lockheed Martin, Airbus and Boeing airplanes, and Titan IV launch vehicles. The company also produces electronic controls for the locomotive industry and the emerging electric vehicle market.

Lockheed Martin received one of two JSF Concept Demonstration contracts the Defense Department awarded in November 1996. The contract calls for Lockheed Martin to produce and fly two demonstrator aircraft, conduct various technology ground demonstrations, and refine its Preferred Weapons System Concept for the eventual JSF production aircraft. The winner of this phase of the competition will proceed to engineering and manufacturing development beginning early in 2001. The JSF is expected to enter service in 2008.

Approximately 3,000 Joint Strike Fighters are planned for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and the United Kingdom's Royal Navy. Export sales could total an additional 2,000 aircraft over the life of the program. Lockheed Martin has identified the JSF program as its top new-business opportunity.