3 October 2003

"We are excited to witness the emergence of Turkey's industrial participation in the F-35 JSF program," said Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and JSF program general manager. "As a full partner in F-35 System Development and Demonstration (SDD), Turkey is among eight international SDD partners contributing to the development of this next-generation aircraft, and lending industrial expertise to ensure its success."

Mike Cosentino, F-35 JSF international programs director with Lockheed Martin commented, "The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is a transformational weapon system that will change the way the world thinks and operates, from the corporate boardroom to the future battle space. The participation of international industry in the development of one of the most technologically advanced U.S. weapons programs will set new standards for cooperation and communication between government, industry and people around the world. Today, two world-class international industries celebrate the building of that future for Turkey."