RTX subsidiary Pratt & Whitney has secured a major $1.6-billion US Navy contract to sustain and support the F135 engines that power the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. The agreement includes comprehensive services such as recurring sustainment, propulsion system integration, spare parts deliveries, and updates to technical documentation used across the global F-35 fleet. Both operational units and depot facilities will receive upgraded support under this program.
The contract further covers specialized training for technicians and operators, ensuring they are equipped to maintain the full F-35 propulsion system throughout its lifecycle. A significant portion of the workload—around 40%—will be executed in East Hartford, Connecticut, reinforcing the facility’s role as a central hub for advanced engine sustainment.
Pratt & Whitney’s obligations will extend across multiple US states, including Oklahoma, Indiana, and Florida, while international sustainment activities will take place in partner nations such as Japan, Australia, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, and the UK. All contract work is expected to conclude by November 2026, supporting worldwide F-35 operational readiness.
Beyond its contribution to the F-35 program, Pratt & Whitney is also known for powering iconic aircraft like the F-15 Eagle and C-17 Globemaster III, as well as numerous US military helicopters. The company is now pushing into next-generation propulsion, developing a new engine for the Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) “loyal wingman” drones and advancing the XA103 adaptive propulsion system through cutting-edge digital design methods.
