Lockheed Martin has signed more long-term performance-based logistics (PBL) agreements with suppliers for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, continuing the transition to a model that allows companies to better plan and reduce sustainment costs for the aircraft.

PBL contracts were previously renewed on an annual basis, but new multiyear versions are allowing suppliers to better plan so that they can make long-term supplies investments to reduce costs and increase efficiencies.

In addition to these PBL contracts, the company has also established 12 master repair agreements (MRAs) with certain suppliers to improve repair capacity and speed.

Lockheed Martin said that the PBLs refer to contracts with BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman, and Collins Elbit Vision Systems, while the MRAs cover agreements with companies including Honeywell, General Electric, and Eaton.

Source: janes