A team jointly staffed by personnel from CEVA Logistics and its customer BAE Systems has won the prestigious BAE Systems MAI (Military Air & Information) “2014 Supplier Relationship Award”. The winning F35 Transport Team comprises staff jointly drawn from BAE and CEVA. It is responsible for the delivery of raw materials from global suppliers, to support the manufacture of major components for the F35 Lightning II fighter aircraft program. In addition, it handles the components’ subsequent delivery to aircraft final assembly lines in Fort Worth (USA) and Milan (Italy). The award was made following nominations by the many different businesses within MAI, of global candidates they feel have delivered exceptional performance. A panel of BAE senior management assessed all submissions against set criteria, to decide the winner. MAI – part of BAE Systems – traces its roots back to the earliest days of aviation, through well-known names including Avro and Vickers. MAI designs and manufactures fixed wing combat and training aircraft for customers around the world, and provides associated training solutions and support services. MAI also incorporates BAE’s defence information arm. CEVA has been involved in global freight management services for the F35-Lightning II since 2000, with a steady increase in the business resulting from the progressive expansion of the program. CEVA currently moves some 7000 shipments per year by air, road and sea, as well as handling project forwarding. It also works globally for Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, which are both partners in the F35 program. Says Gary Burns, Head of Procurement & Supply Chain for the F35 Lightning II program: “The partnership between BAE Systems and CEVA has ultimately resulted in a potential cost down of £98,000,000 over the life of the programme.  This is a direct result of reducing the transport cost per aircraft ship set from an initial starting position of £74,000 to approximately £43,000; some 42%.  However, the joint team is dedicated to achieving further benefits over the coming years by working smarter both together and throughout our global supply chain. “This relationship is a cornerstone in establishing and maximising efficiencies wherever the F-35 is manufactured and deployed, for all direct and reverse logistic demands.” Steve Hunt of CEVA says “We are delighted to have been identified by BAE Systems for the outstanding relationship we have developed whilst providing a continuously high service delivery to both BAE Systems and the F35- Lightning II program globally. We look forward to strengthening our relationship in the months and years to come.”