F135 engine surpasses one million flight hours

The F135 engine, which powers the F-35 Lightning II, has surpassed one million flight hours, marking a significant milestone in its operational history, according to a press release from Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX.

Pratt & Whitney states that the F135 engine has been a critical component of the F-35 programme since the aircraft’s first flight in 2006, supporting U.S. and allied forces.

“The F135 engine plays a critical role in maintaining global air superiority for the U.S. and its allies, as it enables the F-35 mission in even the most contested environments,” said Jill Albertelli, president of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney.

The company highlights the engine’s reliability, safety, and readiness rates, stating that it exceeds full mission capability requirements of 94% and maintains an exceptional safety record compared to previous generations of fighter engines.

The F135 sustainment network supports global depot facilities, 36 bases, and 12 ships, providing logistical and maintenance infrastructure for international F-35 operators. Pratt & Whitney states that this network aligns with the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, which relies on dispersed operational locations to enhance survivability and combat power projection.

Looking ahead, the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) is expected to enhance the engine’s performance in line with the F-35’s ongoing modernisation efforts. Pratt & Whitney states that the ECU will build on the F135’s existing capabilities to ensure the fighter jet remains competitive against future threats.

To date, more than 1,300 F135 production engines have been delivered to 20 allied nations.