IRVINE, California, June 16, 2008 – Last week, Lockheed Martin announced that the short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) F-35B Lightning II variant multi-role aircraft had its successful first flight, validating a combination of performance capabilities never before demonstrated by a military aircraft… stealth, supersonic speed and STOVL basing flexibility.

Eaton is a key systems supplier on the F-35 B STOVL variant including the 4000 –psi hydraulic power generation system, hydraulic utility actuation sub-system, wing fluid delivery system, VDRP fueldraulic boost pump, STOVL lift fan propulsion unit lubrication system and nose wheel steering control.

The F-35B became the second Lightning II to enter flight test, preceded by the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) F-35A, which first flew in December 2006. The F-35B incorporates a counter-rotating shaft-driven lift fan positioned directly behind the cockpit. The lift fan, produced by Rolls-Royce, is turned by a drive shaft form the F-35B’s massively powerful single engine, which features a swiveling rear exhaust nozzle that vectors thrust downward to lift the aircraft during vertical flight. The overall STOVL propulsion system produces 40,000 pounds of lifting force.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified industrial manufacturer with 2007 sales of $13.0 billion. Eaton is a global leader in electrical systems and components for power quality, distribution and control; fluid power systems and services for industrial, mobile and aircraft equipment; intelligent truck drivetrain systems for safety and fuel economy; and automotive engine air management systems, powertrain solutions and specialty controls for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has 70,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.

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