Pratt & Whitney Advances F135 Engine Core Upgrade with Successful Preliminary Design Review

Pratt & Whitney, a division of RTX, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of the preliminary design review (PDR) for the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU). This crucial step confirms that the ECU's design is on track and surpassing expectations, setting the stage for enhanced durability and performance of the F-35's engine across all three of its variants globally.

The F135 engine is the powerhouse behind the F-35 Lightning II, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet renowned for its advanced capabilities and versatility. The F135 ECU is pivotal for enabling the next phase of F-35 capabilities, known as Block 4. Block 4 enhancements will introduce new weapons, sensors, and software to maintain the F-35’s edge over evolving threats. The ECU is designed to support these advancements by improving the engine’s performance and extending its service life.

During the PDR, Pratt & Whitney and the F-35 Joint Program Office meticulously evaluated the design changes and new propulsion technologies incorporated in the ECU. These innovations are essential not only for restoring the engine's full operational life but also for delivering superior performance. Chris Johnson, vice president of Pratt & Whitney’s F135 program, emphasized the significance of this upgrade: “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.”

The ECU’s development has been endorsed at the highest levels. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Defense selected the F135 ECU as the sole modernization solution for the F-35’s propulsion system. This decision was based on Pratt & Whitney’s unique expertise, proprietary technical documentation, and proven track record. U.S. Navy Capt. Mitchell Grant, F-35 propulsion program manager, noted the success of the PDR: “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.”

Pratt & Whitney’s commitment to the F135 engine program is underscored by its extensive production and operational history. To date, over 1,200 F135 production engines have been delivered, accumulating more than 860,000 engine flight hours. The ECU will be integrated into new F-35s during production or retrofitted at various F135 depot sustainment facilities worldwide.

The successful PDR of the F135 ECU represents a significant leap forward in ensuring the F-35 remains at the forefront of air combat technology, providing unmatched capabilities and maintaining the strategic advantage of the United States and its allies.