2013-08-26 According to a recent article by Mitch Shaw of the Standard-Examiner, ATK provides an important role for the F-35 and this role is also important to the F-35 being deployed to Hill AFB.
The future viability of Hill Air Force Base could hinge on the work being done by an aerospace manufacturer just a few miles down the road.
On August 21st, ATK celebrated the completion of its 150th wing skin for the F-35 Lightning II, the 5th generation, international, multi-role fighter aircraft that will serve as the replacement to the F-16.
During an event held in ATK’s Aerospace Structures facility in Clearfield’s Freeport Center, Lockheed Martin and ATK officials and members of Utah’s Congressional Delegation highlighted ATK’s work on the F-35, as well as the fighter’s role in protecting national security and the program’s economic impact across the U.S. and within Utah.
“The work being done right here at this facility plays a huge role in Hill Air Force Base’s future,” said Utah Senator Orrin Hatch. “The F-35 is the future of the base and the work that is going on here is essential to the jet’s success.”
ATK manufactures several composite structures for the F-35 at the company’s Clearfield facility, including upper and lower wing skins, straps, engines nacelles, covers and inlet ducts.
Hill is listed as the Air Force’s preferred alternative for the location of the first two operational squadrons of the jet and a possible third squadron.
The move would bring 72 new jets to the base. Hill currently has two F-16 squadrons and 48 jets.
Hill also provides modification and maintenance support on the F-35.
Excerpts from the following article:
http://www.standard.net/stories/2013/08/21/hill-viability-may-hinge-atk-f-35-work