JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The first Royal Navy (RN) F-35 Lightning II aircraft arrived at Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) on Dec. 3 for Production Asset Inspection Requirement Tier II (PAIR II) corrosion-mitigation inspections.
Using the PAIR II process, FRCSE artisans on the F-35 corrosion speed line will inspect the aircrafts’ underlying structure then remove and repair any corrosion to prevent further damage.
PAIR II is a comprehensive process involving detailed corrosion mapping, structural assessments, and component repairs or replacements. To minimize aircraft downtime, FRCSE artisans optimized the PAIR II process, reducing the standard turnaround time from 180 days to approximately 60 days, significantly improving the availability of F-35 aircraft for operational service.
Additionally, to reduce future corrosion and repair costs, F-35 corrosion prevention best practices are being shared with RN maintenance counterparts for implementation both domestically and at sea.
The 60 artisans and support staff comprising FRCSE’s F-35 team have undergone extensive training on the aircraft’s advanced systems, including the Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS) and specialized surface coatings.
"The FRCSE speed line is recognized within the F-35 community for efficient and cost-effective corrosion mitigation," said Capt. 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."
The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter aircraft used by the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and 19 allied nations that combine stealth, multi-mission capability, electronic warfare and lethality. It serves a key role in global deterrence.
About Fleet Readiness Center Southeast
Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) is northeast Florida and southeast Georgia’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, employing approximately 5,000 civilian, military and contract workers. With annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, the organization serves as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy, Naval Air Systems Command and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers by maintaining the combat airpower for America’s military forces.