Pratt & Whitney F135 Engine Upgrade Passes Design Review

Pratt & Whitney announced on September 15 that the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) for the Lockheed Martin F-35 has passed a risk reduction design review milestone. Launched in early 2024, the ECU program is designed to increase longevity, thrust, and fuel efficiency to support the Block 4 modernization program.

When combined with a Power and Thermal Management System upgrade, the ECU is expected to double the engine's cooling capacity and increase both range and thrust by 7%. The company plans to implement these upgrades in F135 engines delivered after fiscal 2031. Current funding is allocated for the delivery of long-lead materials required for future ground test engines.

Jill Albertelli, President of Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, stated that the review demonstrated the maturity of the program. Navy Captain Mitch Grant, the government F-35 propulsion program manager, confirmed the progress, noting that the program remains on track to improve readiness and outpace adversaries.