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News Release from: StarragHeckert UK
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 17 February 2006
Machining centre to produce stealth
aircraft parts
StarragHeckert is to supply a GBP 1m-plus 5-axis machining centre to BAE Systems in Samlesbury, UK, to produce titanium components for the F-35 JSF, the next-generation, supersonic, stealth aircraft.
The Machining Centre at BAE Systems in Samlesbury UK, is set to receive the latest piece of technology that will produce components for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter A new 5-axis machine will be supplied by Starrag Heckert of Switzerland at a cost of over GBP 1m, with an option for a second machine to be exercised later this year
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 9 Dec 2002 at 8.00am (UK)
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The machine will be used to produce titanium components for the F-35 JSF, the next-generation, supersonic, multi-role stealth aircraft designed to replace the AV-8B Harrier, A-10, F-16, F/A-18 Hornet and the United Kingdom's Harrier GR.7 and Sea Harrier The first new machine is to be delivered in October 2006 and preparations are already underway, with area clearance of the three old 5-axis Automax III machines nearing completion and design works for the foundations commencing.
Andy Lee, project manager for BAE Systems Facilities Engineering at Samlesbury said: "The new Starrag Heckert machines will enable the machining business to meet increasing demands from the F-35 JSF for highly complex and difficult titanium components required for the System Development and Demonstration (SDD) and Low Rate Initial Production phases (LRIP) of the programme." He added: "The machines being installed are a much newer and improved version of those currently in use within the Advanced Machining Business." The second machine is scheduled for installation in January 2007.
However, due to the tight timescales for component delivery, BAE Systems has agreed a novel approach with Starrag Heckert to utilise their in-house manufacturing facilities in Switzerland to produce early parts, before the first machine is installed at Samlesbury.
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* About BAE Systems - BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space.
The Company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems.
It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries.
The Company employs over 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately GBP 14.8 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.
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