The F-35 Joint Program Office, engineers at U.S. Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) in Cherry Point, N.C., and laser technology professionals are now using a high-tech procedure to strengthen the airframe of some F-35Bs. In February 2021, the first F-35B was inducted at the FRCE to receive the procedure, known as laser shock peening, that will decrease maintenance, lengthen the life span, and ultimately reduce the cost. (Read more...)