The United States Department of Defense (DoD) has finalized a $3.8 billion contract modification with Pratt & Whitney, a division of RTX, for the continued production of F135 engines. This brings the total value of the contract for the two production lots to approximately $6.6 billion.

Key Component of the Joint Strike Fighter Program

This agreement is a crucial part of the Joint Strike Fighter program, responsible for the production and long-term maintenance of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Funding will support propulsion systems for the US Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as international partners and foreign military sales customers.

Contract Details and Support Services

Beyond engine delivery, the contract requires Pratt & Whitney to provide initial spare parts, engine modules, and specialized engineering services. The company will also offer program management and technical assistance to maintain the operational readiness of the global F-35 fleet. These resources are designed to strengthen the supply chain and ensure continued flight operations.

The F135 Engine: A Technological Marvel

Pratt & Whitney describes the F135 engine as the “most advanced military engine in the world.” It’s an afterburning turbofan system developed using the architecture of the F119 engine, which powers the F-22 Raptor.

Engine Specifications

  • Length: 220 inches
  • Diameter: 46 inches
  • Weight: Up to 1,770 kilograms (depending on configuration)

The F135 is compatible with all three variants of the F-35 Lightning II. It generates approximately 115,000 horsepower, enabling a maximum speed of Mach 1.6 (around 1,228 miles per hour). The engine also allows for a service ceiling of 50,000 feet and a flight range of approximately 1,496 miles.

Increased Production and Economic Impact

To date, the F135 program has delivered over 1,400 engines to 20 allied nations. The program supports over 66,000 jobs across 47 US states and territories.

Pratt & Whitney Investment

Jill Albertelli, president of Military Engines for Pratt & Whitney, stated, “Pratt & Whitney is investing heavily across our global production base and supply chain to increase production and accelerate engine delivery and sustainment to meet growing global demand for the F-35 program.” These investments have increased engine production by 20% compared to previous contracts.

Manufacturing will primarily occur at Pratt & Whitney’s facilities in Connecticut, with contributions from other states and international locations. The Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, Maryland, is overseeing the contract. Work is expected to be completed by March 2028, ensuring continued propulsion system availability for the F-35 program.