A computer rendering of Boeing’s forthcoming 777X aircraft. IAI announced that it will build the empennage leading edges for Boeing’s new 777X aircraft. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

JNS.org – Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has secured major contracts with two US-based aerospace and defense firms, Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

IAI announced Tuesday that it will build the empennage (tail assembly) leading edges for Boeing’s new 777X aircraft. The 777X is the next generation in Boeing’s 777 family and will debut in 2020. IAI and Boeing have a relationship going back nearly 40 years, and IAI currently supplies Boeing with the empennage leading edge for the 777 as well as the pivot bulkhead, passenger floor beams, and door surround details for the 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

“Boeing’s renewed vote of confidence in IAI is an act that cannot be overestimated. Working with the world’s leading aviation giant serves as a stamp of quality for IAI’s technological and aviation capabilities. We are happy and proud of the agreement, and believe that this cooperation will bear fruit for years to come,” IAI said in a statement.

Separately, IAI has also secured a new contract with the U.S. defense firm Lockheed Martin to produce 40 additional pairs of wings for the advanced F-35 stealth fighter jet. IAI is scheduled to produce 800 pairs of F-35 wings, with a potential value of $2.5 billion, over the next 10-15 years.

“Lockheed Martin recognizes IAI’s commitment to the F-35 program and understands the importance of the quality delivered by the IAI team. This order demonstrates our confidence in the continued performance and we look forward to continuing our healthy relationship long into the future,” said Jeff Babione, Lockheed Martin’s F-35 program manager.

Headquartered in Lod, IAI is Israel’s leading aerospace and aviation firm for both the military and civilian sectors.