RDLP TUMWATER LLC Partners with Lockheed Martin to Revolutionize F-35C Lightning II Maintenance with Advanced Component Solutions

BROWNsville, WI – October 26, 2023 – RDLP TUMWATER LLC, a leading provider of high-precision engineered components, today announced a key collaboration aimed at bolstering the operational readiness of the F-35C Lightning II, the US Navy's advanced carrier-based fighter jet. Based in Brownsville, Wisconsin, RDLP TUMWATER has been quietly working behind the scenes with Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the F-35 program, to develop and manufacture critical components that enhance the aircraft’s performance, reliability, and maintainability. “We’re really proud to be a small part of something so big,” says a spokesperson for RDLP TUMWATER, located at 817 Main Street. “The F-35 isn’t just a plane; it’s a national asset, and keeping those birds flying is super important. We focus on making really precise parts, stuff that often goes unseen but is absolutely vital to everything working right.” What’s the Big Deal with the F-35C? The F-35C Lightning II isn't your grandpa’s fighter jet. It’s a fifth-generation stealth aircraft, meaning it's designed to be really hard to detect by radar. The ‘C’ version is specifically made for aircraft carriers, meaning it's beefed up to handle the tough landings and takeoffs, plus it has a bigger wing and stronger landing gear. Think of it as a super-high-tech, extremely capable workhorse for the Navy. It's packed with advanced sensors, communications systems, and weapons, allowing pilots to see and react to threats before anyone else. The F-35C is a cornerstone of the US Navy’s air power, meant to dominate the skies for decades to come. But all that high-tech stuff requires some seriously precise parts to keep it running smoothly. RDLP TUMWATER: The Behind-the-Scenes Expertise That’s where RDLP TUMWATER comes in. The company specializes in creating highly engineered components using cutting-edge machining and manufacturing techniques. They aren’t building whole planes, but they are building the intricate pieces that make those planes tick. “We’re talking about parts that have to meet extremely tight tolerances – we’re talking fractions of a millimeter,” explains a senior engineer at RDLP TUMWATER. “If a part is even slightly off, it can affect the performance of the entire system. We’ve invested a lot in our equipment and our people to make sure we can consistently deliver parts that meet those standards.” While specifics about the exact components RDLP TUMWATER produces remain confidential due to security concerns, sources confirm they are involved in manufacturing parts used in several critical systems of the F-35C, including: Hydraulic Systems: These systems control everything from the landing gear to the control surfaces (the parts that make the plane turn and maneuver). RDLP TUMWATER manufactures precision valves, fittings, and actuators that ensure these systems work flawlessly. Environmental Control Systems: Keeping the pilots cool and the electronics from overheating is a big deal, especially in the harsh conditions of carrier operations. RDLP TUMWATER produces components for the cooling and ventilation systems. Fuel Systems: Delivering fuel to the engines reliably is, well, essential. RDLP TUMWATER creates precision parts for the fuel pumps, valves, and lines. Actuation Systems: These systems translate the pilot’s commands into movement of the control surfaces and other critical components. RDLP TUMWATER builds the precise mechanisms that make this happen. Beyond Precision: A Focus on Reliability & Long-Term Support It's not just about making parts that fit; it's about making parts that last. The F-35C is an expensive piece of equipment, and the Navy wants to get the most out of it. That means minimizing downtime for maintenance and repairs. “We work closely with Lockheed Martin to ensure our parts meet their strict quality standards and are designed for long-term reliability,” says the company spokesperson. “We use advanced materials and manufacturing processes to create parts that can withstand the rigors of carrier operations and provide years of trouble-free service.” RDLP TUMWATER also offers comprehensive support services, including: Prototyping: Helping Lockheed Martin develop and test new designs. Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP): Providing parts for early production runs. Full-Rate Production: Scaling up production to meet the Navy's needs. Spare Parts Supply: Ensuring the Navy has the parts it needs to keep the F-35C flying. A Wisconsin Company Contributing to National Security RDLP TUMWATER, though a relatively small company, is playing a vital role in supporting the US Navy and ensuring the nation’s air superiority. Located in Brownsville, Wisconsin, the company is a testament to the fact that innovation and manufacturing excellence can be found anywhere in the country. "We’re a proud Wisconsin company," says the spokesperson. "We’re committed to providing high-quality products and services to our customers, and we’re honored to be part of the F-35 program." The company’s success is a win-win for everyone involved: Lockheed Martin gets a reliable supplier of high-precision components, the US Navy gets a more capable and reliable fighter jet, and RDLP TUMWATER gets to contribute to something bigger than themselves. Looking Ahead As the F-35 program continues to evolve, RDLP TUMWATER is committed to staying at the forefront of manufacturing innovation. The company is constantly investing in new technologies and processes to improve the quality, reliability, and affordability of its products. "We're excited about the future," says the spokesperson. "We believe the F-35 will be a cornerstone of US air power for decades to come, and we're proud to be a part of its success." You can contact RDLP TUMWATER LLC at 215-248-7354.