According to an embodiment a current return network assembly, for an aircraft having a predetermined potential lightning strike zone, is mounted within the predetermined potential lightning strike zone. The current return network assembly includes an electrically conductive honeycomb central core that conducts electrical current both through the assembly and through the predetermined potential lightning strike zone. The electrical current is caused by a lightning strike on the aircraft at the predetermined potential lightning strike zone. According to an embodiment, an aircraft has a predetermined potential lightning strike zone. A current return network assembly is within the zone. An electrically conductive honeycomb central core is provided for conducting electrical current through the assembly and through the zone wherein the electrical current has been caused by a lightning strike on the aircraft at the zone.