Technical maintenance crews have removed an engine from an F-35A Lightning II aircraft with a purpose-built trailer in a purpose-built facility.
The crews from No. 3 Squadron, No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit, BAE Systems Australia and Lockheed Martin conducted the works at RAAF Base Williamtown.
No. 3 Squadron Senior Engineering Officer Squadron Leader Leigh Tinker said it was an exciting day for technicians when the first removal of an F-35A engine was carried out by an Australian unit.
“We had a mix of personnel on the job including 3SQN, 2OCU, BAE, Lockheed Martin and Marand,” SQLDR Tinker said. “The learnings from the day were an important part of maximising training opportunities and forging Defence/Industry collaboration.”
Marand Engineering Manager Jeff Brown ensured the trailer operated as per the design requirements during the removal process.
SQLDR Tinker said Brown’s support had been invaluable for training technical and maintenance crews.