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A longevity, thrust and fuel efficiency upgrade for the Lockheed Martin F-35 has passed a risk reduction design review milestone, Pratt & Whitney said on Sept. 15.
The F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) updates the propulsion system for all F-35 variants to cope with the thrust requirements of the ongoing Block 4 modernization program.
Jill Albertelli, the president of Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, said the review demonstrated the maturity of the ECU program.
Pratt & Whitney launched the ECU program in early 2024 with the goal of delivering the improvements in F135s delivered after fiscal 2031.
In combination with an additional Power and Thermal Management System upgrade, the improvements are expected to bring a 7% increase in range and thrust while doubling the cooling capacity of the F135.
“The ECU program remains on track to deliver substantially improved readiness and to support F-35 modernization to outpace our adversaries,” said Navy Capt. Mitch Grant, the government’s F-35 propulsion program manager.
Pratt & Whitney also is funded this year to start delivering long-lead materials for future ground test engines for the ECU program, according to the military’s budget justification records.
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