Lockheed Martin has named Al Norman as its new chief test pilot for the F-35 strike fighter program. Norman, a veteran experimental test pilot for the company, replaces Jon Beesley, who retired Jan. 31. “I feel very honored and privileged to be named the F-35 chief test pilot,” said Norman in Lockheed’s release. He added, “This is a very fast-paced and challenging time for the F-35 program. I am thrilled and humbled to be working with such a tremendously talented team that spans industry and government across the world.” Norman joined Lockheed in 1999 after 23 years as an Air Force fighter pilot and test pilot. He first flew for the company on the F-22 program at Edwards AFB, Calif., as part of Edwards’ Combined Test Force. He has more than 6,000 flying hours and is also Lockheed’s chief pilot for the T-50 program.
U.S. Northern Command plans to sign an agreement with its European and Pacific counterparts to enhance coordination and close security seams in the Arctic, a strategically vital region that spans all three commands. The agreement comes at an important moment in NORTHCOM's evolution, as its mission grows more complex.
