Pratt & Whitney completes F135 ECU review, enhancing engine performance for All F-35 variants and future capabilities.
Pratt & Whitney, a business unit of RTX, has completed the preliminary design review (PDR) for the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU). This review confirms that the ECU’s design is on schedule and surpassing expectations. The upgrade will enhance engine durability and performance. Consequently, it will fully support Block 4 and future capabilities for all three F-35 variants worldwide.
During the preliminary design review (PDR), Pratt & Whitney and the F-35 Joint Program Office assessed the ECU’s design changes. They also evaluated propulsion technologies required to restore the engine’s full life and enhance performance. Consequently, these improvements will enable the integration of next-generation weapons and sensors.
Chris Johnson, vice president of Pratt & Whitney’s F135 program, said, “Pratt & Whitney is upgrading the F135 engine with technology from multiple development programs to deliver increased capability and performance for the warfighter. Upgrading the F-35’s propulsion system to ECU is a critical step toward ensuring the F-35 remains the world’s premier air dominance fighter.”
Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Defense chose the F135 ECU as the sole modernization solution for the F-35’s propulsion system. Moreover, The Department determined that Pratt & Whitney possesses the necessary experience, specialized skills, proprietary technical documentation, and software expertise. Furthermore, This decision reflects Pratt & Whitney’s capability to provide the required supplies and services.
U.S. Navy Capt. Mitchell Grant, F-35 propulsion program manager, said, “The PDR was a successful first step toward the capability the ECU will provide in meeting the challenging performance and durability requirements of the F135. The ECU will ensure that the U.S. and our international partners remain well positioned to outpace adversary threats.”
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Pratt & Whitney has delivered over 1,200 F135 production engines, which have logged more than 860,000 flight hours. Furthermore, the F135 ECU will be installed in F-35s either during production or retrofitted at numerous F135 depot sustainment facilities worldwide.
Q. – What company completed the PDR for the F135 ECU?
A. – Pratt & Whitney
Q. – What will the F135 ECU upgrade enhance?
A. – Engine durability and performance
