The maiden flight of the first F-35 assembled in Italy at the Finmeccanica – Alenia Aermacchi production plants took place successfully at the Cameri Air Force Base (Novara). The F-35 is a new generation multi-role aircraft with stealth characteristics, i.e. low radar observability, built as part of the international Joint Strike Fighter program, led by the US Lockheed Martin.
After participating in the design phase through integrated teams with Lockheed Martin, Finmeccanica, through Alenia Aermacchi, is the national industrial leader of over 25 Italian companies. In detail, the Group is responsible for the assembly of aircraft destined for the Italian Armed Forces and part of those ordered by the Netherlands.
The Cameri site also represents the second production line of wing boxes in addition to the main line operated in-house by Lockheed Martin. The Cameri site has also been identified as the aircraft's logistical support center at European level. Finmeccanica also participates in the creation of some electronic components of the aircraft through Selex ES.
The program envisages technological and employment implications for Finmeccanica and for the companies involved. Lockheed Martin test pilot Bill 'Gigs' Gigliotti took off at 13:05 local time for a 1,22-hour test flight with the AL-1, which represents a milestone for Italy and for the productive partnership between Finmeccanica-Alenia Aermacchi and Lockheed Martin.
“The first flight of the AL-1 is an extraordinary milestone, achieved thanks to the skillful work and strong commitment of the joint Finmeccanica-Alenia Aermacchi and Lockheed Martin teams,” said Lorraine Martin, General Manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin. “The first flight in Italy lays solid foundations for the F-35 program in Italy and for future opportunities for FACO in Cameri. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those who have worked tirelessly to help us reach this milestone for the international programme”.
The first flight of the AL-1 went as planned. “The aircraft performed the test excellently and without any unexpected events,” commented Gigliotti. “I am honored to have flown the AL-1 on its maiden flight and am grateful to the Cameri team for providing me with a fantastic aircraft. We expect great results from now to the delivery of the aircraft, expected by the end of the year”.
