Through its subsidiary Pratt & Whitney, RTX Corporation has secured a contract valued at $1.3 billion from the U.S. Department of Defense to upgrade the F135 Engine Core. The upgrade will support increased performance and longevity of the F-35 fighter jet, a key aircraft used by various departments in global military operations.
F135 Engine Core Upgrade: Enhancing Power and Performance
The $1.3 billion contract focuses on enhancing the F135 engine, which powers Lockheed Martin's F-35 jets. The upgrade, known as the Engine Core Upgrade (ECU), will provide increased power, thermal management, and overall performance, particularly in line with the F-35's Block 4 configuration.
What’s more, the Block 4 upgrade allows the jet to carry additional weapons and enhances its electronic warfare capabilities, making it an even more formidable force in the field.
Pratt & Whitney has long been the sole provider of the F135 engines, which have been delivered to multiple global partners. The ECU represents a cost-effective solution, projected to save billions in lifecycle costs while simultaneously boosting the fighter's performance.
The F135 engine, powering all variants of the F-35 fighter, is a crucial element in U.S. military operations. The F-35 is widely regarded as the most lethal and advanced fighter jet, and the F135 ECU will ensure the aircraft continues to meet the evolving needs of the U.S. military and its allies.
This contract extends Pratt & Whitney's role in supporting not only the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, but also international F-35 partners.
Economic Impact and Job Support
The F135 program continues to support thousands of jobs across the United States, including Connecticut, where Pratt & Whitney is headquartered.
Over 700 engineers and program managers are dedicated to the program, and the upgrade work will be carried out in Connecticut and facilities in Maine, Indiana, Florida, Illinois, and Puerto Rico. This contract helps secure employment and solidifies the company’s place as one of Connecticut’s largest manufacturers.
The successful awarding of this contract comes after sustained efforts by members of the U.S. Congress. In particular, it urged bipartisan support from the Connecticut and Maine delegations. Representatives such as Rosa DeLauro and Senator Susan Collins played instrumental roles in advocating for continued investment in the F135 engine.
According to Larson, co-chair of the bipartisan Joint Strike Fighter Caucus, “We know that usually investments in the industry — and they are our largest manufacturer — have a 4-1 payback in terms of what it does for the economy.” Aside from Pratt & Whitney’s track record, it’s clear that economic considerations were key behind the successful signing of this deal.
Conclusion
RTX's latest contract highlights the strategic importance of Pratt & Whitney’s F135 engine in modern military operations. This $1.3 billion contract will significantly enhance the F-35’s capabilities while securing jobs and driving innovation. With continued bipartisan support, Pratt & Whitney remains a cornerstone of U.S. defense manufacturing and a key partner in global military advancements.
Jil Albertelli, president of Pratt & Whitney’s Military Engines business, had this to say about the deal, “This contract is critical to continuing our positive forward momentum on this program. It allows us to continue work in the risk reduction phase with a fully staffed team focused on design maturation, aircraft integration, and mobilizing the supply base to prepare for production.”
