Tech Refresh 3 (TR-3), a technology enhancement for the F-35 fighter jet, is facing repeated delays, according to Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va. at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California.
TR-3 is expected to provide the F-35 with better displays, computer memory, and processing power. Delays are causing scheduling issues for a larger upgrade known as Block 4, which will increase the F-35’s capabilities.
The TR-3 upgrade was originally expected to conclude by April 2023, but this deadline has been delayed twice to a projected timeframe between April and June 2024.
Wittman is skeptical that the Pentagon and Lockheed will meet the revised deadline for TR-3. The TR-3 technology is necessary for parts of the Block 4 upgrade and will enable new capabilities for the F-35.
Wittman is frustrated by the slow progress with TR-3 and believes the Pentagon should shift its focus to software earlier in program development. He stressed the importance of tracking software upgrades more closely, especially as the Air Force plans to integrate autonomous drone wingmen with the F-35.
