Ellzey visits Gamma Aerospace

U.S. Rep. Jake Ellzey joined Lockheed Martin, local F-35 supplier Gamma Aerospace, area elected officials and community leaders Thursday for an update on the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, the most advanced and connected fighter aircraft in production today and a key economic driver in the Lone Star State. The F-35 generates more than $9.9 billion in annual revenue in Texas and provides more than 49,000 total jobs throughout the state every year.

“The F-35 Lightning II isn’t just another fighter jet, it’s the most advanced, capable and cost-effective aircraft our nation has ever put in the sky. It sets the standard for modern airpower, and I was proud to see firsthand the incredible technology Lockheed Martin is delivering to support our warfighters,” said Ellzey, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. “I’m proud of the hard-working men and women at Gamma, who are building world-class components right here in our backyard and creating good-paying jobs for Texas families.”

Using the cockpit demonstrator for a virtual flight, Ellzey experienced firsthand the jet’s unmatched agility, unparalleled stealth capabilities and advanced integrated communications systems. The fully interactive cockpit demonstrator provides an immersive experience of the F-35’s capabilities that deliver decisive air dominance and allow men and women in uniform to perform their missions and come home safely.

“We are always pleased to have Rep. Ellzey visit Gamma Aerospace as he works hard to support us and stay informed on the F-35 and the role of manufacturing in sustaining our local economy,” said Jason Jackson, president of Gamma Aerospace. “Our participation in the F-35 program continues more than 75 years of partnership with the U.S. government, helping them bring the most advanced solutions to American and allied forces to ensure peace and freedom around the world.”

Gamma Aerospace is one of 141 Texas companies producing components for the F-35, part of the global supply chain that includes over 1,600 American companies producing various components and tools for the aircraft and delivering substantial economic impact to the United States economy at a pivotal time.

More than 1,200 F-35s are currently operational around the globe, and the fleet has surpassed 1 million flight hours. The combat proven F-35 operates from 50 bases worldwide, including 10 nations operating on home soil. As adversaries advance and legacy aircraft age, the F-35 is critical to maintaining air dominance for decades to come.