4 April 2025
The Lockheed Martin F-35A expo tent was a major attraction at the Australian International Airshow at Avalon in March 2025, drawing in defence experts, aviation enthusiasts and government representatives eager to witness the latest advancements in fifth-generation fighter technology.
The tent featured 28 Australian industry exhibitors across production, sustainment and training in the global F-35A Program, and more than 800 attendees engaged with defence and industry representatives over the week – sharing experiences and achievements, and looking to future opportunities with the program.
The exhibition demonstrated the successful collaboration between the Aerospace Combat Systems Branch in Defence’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Lockheed Martin and Australian industry suppliers.
The increasingly significant contribution of Australian companies to the program was highlighted, with more than $5 billion in contracts awarded to more than 75 local companies since the Industrial Participation Program began in 2006 (reporting as at December 31, 2024).
Director General Aerospace Combat Systems (ACS) Air Commodore David Houghton said the expo tent was an exemplar of Defence and industry working hand in hand to deliver fifth-generation capability to Air Force.
“As one of the most advanced multi-role stealth fighters in the world, the F-35A Lightning II is forming the cornerstone of Australia’s air defence and strike capability, supported by defence industry partners,” AIRCDRE Houghton said.
The expo tent provided an immersive experience, showcasing the latest developments in avionics, maintenance and operational capabilities of the aircraft, displaying an array of componentry and special processing capabilities in one of the only centralised opportunities outside an assembly line.
'As one of the most advanced multi-role stealth fighters in the world, the F-35A Lightning II is forming the cornerstone of Australia’s air defence and strike capability.'
“A major focus of the tent was sustainment and maintenance innovations, as Australian industry continues to stand-up component repair facilities across the country," Air Commodore Houghton said.
“With the F-35A global fleet designed to operate out to 2088, ensuring efficient and cost-effective maintenance is crucial for the decades ahead.
“To meet this future need, the expo tent has also served as a platform for recruitment and education, aiming to inspire the next generation of engineers, technicians, and aerospace professionals.”
Defence’s ACS Branch Director Industry, Kirrilee McNeill, said representatives from the ADF and key industry players also engaged with students and young professionals, utilising interactive displays that emphasise the career opportunities available within the F-35A Program and the broader defence sector.
“We were fortunate to have an Air Force F-35A pilot walk through and engage with exhibitors to hear how industry is directly contributing to the operational capability of the aircraft,” Ms McNeill said.
As the air show concluded, the F-35A expo tent remained a focal point for discussions on innovation, collaboration and the future of Australia’s air combat capability.
“With Australia having received 72 F-35A aircraft, industry’s role in supporting these aircraft will continue to grow, reinforcing the country’s position as a critical partner in one of the most advanced defence programs in the world,” Ms McNeill said.
Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand Warren McDonald said the collaboration not only strengthened Australia’s defence industry but positioned Australia as a key player in global aerospace manufacturing.
“With over 1100 F-35A aircraft in service across multiple nations, sustaining and upgrading these aircraft presents a significant economic opportunity for Australian business,” Mr McDonald said.
More information on the capability of the F-35A Lightning II is available on the Air Force website.
