Sir - The announcement of British Aerospace's participation in the US Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is excellent news for the Warton and Salmesbury staff.
When details emerge, however, it will be interesting to see how much BAe will contribute in terms of design and technology, as the initial airframe design must have been formulated by prime contractor Lockheed Martin.
BAe's expertise in wing structures and short take-off/vertical-landing aircraft should give it influence in the ultimate design of the prototypes.
We are sure, however, that the aircraft will be known as the Lockheed Martin F-**, except, perhaps, for those which may be assembled at Warton for the Royal Navy.
J M Tracey
Liverpool, UK
Source: Flight International
