Lunenberg Company Hopes Federal Fighter Jet Contract Means Big Business
LUNENBURG–Lunenburg’s Stelia Aerospace is keeping a keen eye on negotiations between Lockheed Martin and the Canadian Government, as it will likely mean more work coming the company’s way.
Stelia produces composite panels that are used in F-35 fighter jets. However, all of the panels the company has produced to date have been for foreign jets.
That could all be changing soon, according to Stelia CEO Mark Gagon.
The Canadian government announced last week it has entered into the “finalization phase” of procurement talks with Lockheed and the U.S. Government. That’s because the feds have chosen Lockheed’s F-35 as the preferred replacement for the Canadian Armed Forces’ aging CF-18 fighter jets.
The government has already earmarked $17-billion to buy 88 F-35s and, if the agreement moves forward, it would be the most significant investment in the air force in three decades.
However, as is the normal procedure, the government selected the aircraft before entering negotiations–so nothing is set in stone. But Gagnon said that if the deal comes together it will likely mean big business for Stelia.
“We already have a great relationship with Lockheed Martin and have proven our ability to produce quality products, so if the negotiations move forward we would expect to be involved in some production,” Gagon said.
Despite Stelia being an aerospace company, which comes with the perception of having large, expensive factories, Gagon says his company fits right in, in Lunenburg.
“People often think we are some high-tech facility, but our panels are produced much like the ships were here, by hand, by locals who are passionate about what they do,” he said.
Not only would the contract be good for business, but Gagon also says there is a particular sense of pride associated with helping build aircraft that will be used by the Canadian military. His company is eager to become a part of the production team.
Evan Taylor is a reporter with CKBW in Bridgewater, a Huddle content partner.