ASFI’s Temporary Aircraft Canopy to Provide Portable Shelter for Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Jets

Innovative Hangar Structure Boasts Wheels for Easy Relocation

September 21, 2007 (Crystal River, Fla.) – Lockheed Martin recently commissioned the construction of a custom portable aircraft canopy developed by American Spaceframe Fabricators International (ASFI). The fabric-framed structure, known as a Temporary Aircraft Canopy (TAC), will act as a portable hangar for the new F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets, the replacement to the well-known F-16s, F/A-18s, A-10s and Harriers. The TAC will be located at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth, Tex., location and is expected to be complete by the end of fall.

Combining traditional aerospan functionality with mobility, the TAC features four heavyduty electric retractable wheel jacks that will allow for easy relocation of the structure. When secured to any towing vehicle, the TAC can be rolled in multiple directions for easy transportation to alternate locations. Once in place, the structure can be temporarily secured to the apron grating with the simple activation of grab anchors.

Standing 25 feet high with a 64-by-60 foot base, the TAC will comfortably house a single F-35 jet for maintenance and storage purposes. To further accommodate the Lightning II, the TAC will feature two electrically operated eyelid doors that allow for easy access at either end of the hangar.

Like all ASFI structures, the TAC is fabricated using a durable, flexible fabric cover tightened over high strength galvanized tubular steel. The translucency of the fabric utilized will allow for natural lighting during the daylight hours, helping to reduce energy costs.

“In the custom fabrication and design business, we have found that flexibility and creativity are the keys to helping our customers increase productivity, efficiency and capacity,” said Chris Longley, vice president of Business Development for ASFI. “Lockheed is no exception. By providing a mobile hangar solution, we have provided them the tools to work on more aircraft in more locations throughout the world.”

For additional information about ASFI structures, please visit www.asfi.net

About ASFI
Based in Crystal River, Fla. American Spaceframe Fabricators, LLC is a design, build and engineering firm with more than 30 years experience in the tensioned fabric structures industry. ASFI’s award-winning structures are located around the globe and provide protection from a myriad of weather conditions from severe hurricane winds to sub zero temperatures. ASFI’s structures include aerospans, sports facilities, canopies and entertainment facilities. For more information visit www.asfi.net

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