Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, secured a three-year contract valued up to $1.5 billion to sustain F119 engines, which power the US Air Force’s F-22 fighter jets. The contract will improve readiness and reduce costs for an F119 fleet of more than 400 engines.
Jill Albertelli, president of military engines at Pratt & Whitney, said: “The F119’s readiness and reliability rates have never been more important, and we are improving both while lowering lifecycle costs. We are committed to helping our US Air Force customer maintain the F-22’s combat edge.”
The F-22 Raptor’s two F119 engines generate over 35,000 pounds of thrust, enabling altitudes above 65,000ft with unmatched speed and agility. Unlike many fighter jets, the F-22 can achieve and maintain supersonic speeds without afterburners, a strategic feature known as supercruise that conserves fuel and extends operational range.
Pratt & Whitney has lowered costs on its F119 engines through its on-going Usage Based Lifing programme, which leverages real-time data to enhance maintenance efficiency and extend engine life; while also improving the engine’s kinematic performance with an engine control schedule update. This latest contract will continue these readiness and cost savings efforts with a focus on safety, availability, simplicity of maintenance, and modernisation initiative.