The US Air Force pushes Lockheed Martin to reduce the F-35 sustainment costs. 

The chief of staff of the Air Force Gen. David Goldfein told reporters during a meeting in Washington that Lockheed Martin must reduce the F-35 joint strike fighters’ operation and support costs to a level that it will be comparable to the sustainment costs associated with a fourth-generation fighter such as the F-16 or F-18. 

 Goldfein downplayed speculation that the program could be cut, telling reporters that he continues to be committed to the Air Force’s entire 1,763-unit buy.