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Air Force Chief Calls Lockheed F-35 Upkeep Costs a Major Concern

  • General Goldfein seeks support costs on par with older F-16s
  • Any talk of cuts to F-35 buying ‘way too early,’ Goldfein says
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Why America's Most Sophisticated Fighter Jets Can't Talk to Each Other

The U.S. Air Force’s top general said the estimated cost to operate and maintain its version of Lockheed Martin Corp.’s F-35 jet is a serious issue that’s sparked a search for savings by the service and senior Pentagon acquisition and support officials.

“Are O&S sustainment costs a major concern?” General David Goldfein, the Air Force chief of staff, said Thursday, referring to operating and support costs for the new fighter. “Absolutely.”