Royal Navy F-35 arrives at FRCSE for accelerated corrosion inspections under PAIR II process

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

The first Royal Navy F-35 Lightning II aircraft arrived at Fleet Readiness Center Southeast on 3 December for Production Asset Inspection Requirement Tier II corrosion-mitigation inspections. The aircraft will undergo detailed structural inspections and corrosion repair to prevent further damage.
Photo: U.S. Navy.

The first Royal Navy F-35 Lightning II aircraft arrived at Fleet Readiness Center Southeast on 3 December for Production Asset Inspection Requirement Tier II corrosion-mitigation inspections. The aircraft will undergo detailed structural inspections and corrosion repair to prevent further damage.

 

Using the PAIR II process, FRCSE artisans inspect the aircraft’s underlying structure before removing and repairing any corrosion found. The comprehensive process includes corrosion mapping, structural assessments and component repairs or replacements.

 

 

FRCSE has optimised the PAIR II process to reduce standard turnaround time from 180 days to about 60 days, significantly improving aircraft availability for operations. Corrosion prevention best practices are also being shared with Royal Navy maintenance teams for use both ashore and at sea.

 

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“The FRCSE speed line is recognized within the F-35 community for efficient and cost-effective corrosion mitigation,” said Mike Windom, commanding officer of FRCSE. “We are proud to extend our expertise to support our Royal Navy allies, ensuring their F-35 aircraft maintain peak mission readiness.”

 

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