Pratt & Whitney Secures Major Contract for F135 Engine Production
Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, has been awarded a $2.8 billion undefinitized contract action (UCA) for the production of Lot 18 of F135 engines. These engines power all three variants of the F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, reinforcing the company’s influential role in sustaining and advancing this global program.
Contract Details and Scope
Announced on August 26, 2025, in East Hartford, Connecticut, the contract encompasses the next production lot of F135 propulsion systems for the fifth-generation F-35 fleet. Developed by Pratt & Whitney, the F135 engine has been fundamental since the program’s inception, offering unmatched power and reliability for air forces worldwide.
Key Benefits of the F135 Engine
- Facilitates the ongoing production of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft.
- Ensures reliable propulsion for all F-35 variants (A, B, and C).
- Enhances U.S. and allied air combat capabilities.
- Promotes innovation in advanced military propulsion technology.
The engine delivers superior thrust, advanced stealth compatibility, and high durability while minimizing life-cycle costs for operators. This production lot will sustain global F-35 operations, ensuring fleets remain mission-ready for the foreseeable future.
“This contract highlights the enduring trust placed in Pratt & Whitney by our U.S. and international partners,” Pratt & Whitney. “We remain committed to delivering world-class propulsion solutions that empower the F-35 to achieve its full potential in any operational environment.”
Impact on the F-35 Program’s Future
The Lot 18 contract is pivotal for the future of the F-35 program, ensuring a consistent supply of engines to meet increasing global demand. This reflects continuous investment in cutting-edge defense technology, vital for maintaining air superiority amid evolving threats.
Pratt & Whitney’s F135 program continues to bolster the F-35’s unparalleled performance, providing operators with the capabilities required both now and in the years to come.