The cost of the F-35 program, including production and development, has already exceeded $400 billion and will reach within 77 years
What is known
Technicians from the workshop at Hill Base were able toto develop a cover that will save millions of dollars on the maintenance of fifth generation fighters. It is designed to protect the sensors when the aircraft is at the base.
F-35 Lightning II has two groups of sensors,installed on the right and left sides of the bow. Sensors are used to collect information that can affect aircraft parameters during flight.
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When the fighter is on the ground sensorsmust be closed to protect against moisture and dust. For this, a special tool with rubber seals is used. Service personnel state that the seals lose their ability in hot weather and the pins often break. At the same time, such a tool costs more than $600 per unit.
Technicians from the workshop at Hill Base createda cheap 3D printed lid. Then they installed the magnets. The new design adheres securely to the F-35's hull and protects the sensors from rain, snow, wind and hail. In addition, the cover is universal, so it can be installed on either side of the bow.
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The job takes approximately 22 hours.One cap costs $45, i.е. more than ten times cheaper than the original instrument. Technicians say they can make the cap any color and apply the squadron logo. Now the US Air Force is trying to file a patent for a new development.