A U.S. Air Force Sustainment Center commander recently confirmed the military has partnered with aerospace and defense technology supplier Orbital ATK to further evolve aircraft design at several locations.
"It is remarkable that the world’s leading centers for advanced composite fabrication can partner long-term to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of all operations involved and ultimately increase the speed at which aircraft are repaired and returned to the field,” Air Force Lt. Gen. Lee Levy, commander at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, said in a press release.
The Air Force has long delivered preparatory logistics for the United States. Working with Orbital ATK is expected to assist with aerostructure design for new or modified platforms, as it has previously supported development and delivery of important structural elements, including rocket motor cases and advanced engineering systems for next-generation aircraft for combat and commercial use, the release said.
"This partnership is a great opportunity to combine the complementary capabilities in advanced composite materials fabrication, test and inspection held by the U.S. Air Force Sustainment Center and Orbital ATK to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of both operations,” Steve Earl, vice president and general manager of Orbital ATK's Aerospace Structures Division, said in the release. “We have great admiration for the U.S. Air Force Sustainment Center and are honored to enter into this partnership agreement.”
Orbital ATK is based in Dulles, Virginia.
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