#United States #RTX #Pratt & Whitney #F135 Engine #East Hartford

Pratt & Whitney Secures $6.6 Billion F135 Engine Production Contract

On March 31, 2026, Pratt & Whitney, a business unit of RTX (NYSE: RTX), announced that it has been awarded a substantial $3.8 billion contract modification for lots 18 and 19 pertaining to the F135 engine—an essential component that powers all variants of the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. This contract solidifies the production commitment for lot 18 and also kickstarts the production of additional units for lot 19, cumulating in a total contract value of $6.6 billion.

Jill Albertelli, the president of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney, emphasized the significance of the F135 engine, describing it as the most advanced military engine globally. She stated, "The F135 delivers unmatched thrust, reliability, and mission readiness for the United States and its allies." This assertion underscores the engine’s critical role, not only in U.S. military operations but also in supporting allied forces around the world.

To meet the increasing global demand for the F-35 program, Pratt & Whitney is investing heavily to enhance its production capabilities. Over the past five years, the company has committed in excess of $1 billion to expand and modernize its manufacturing capacity. This investment has resulted in a remarkable 20% increase in current F135 production rates compared to previous contracts.

The awarded contract encompasses not only the engines required for full-rate production but also includes initial spares, modules, engineering resources, and dedicated program oversight. Importantly, it guarantees the necessary capacity and tooling, ensuring uninterrupted manufacturing and supply chain operations for both U.S. military services and international clients.

The F135 program significantly contributes to the economy as well, supporting more than 66,000 jobs across 47 states and territories. In 2025 alone, the F135 program had a domestic economic impact exceeding $9 billion. To date, Pratt & Whitney has successfully delivered over 1,400 production F135 engines as part of the broader F-35 program, which serves 20 allied nations globally.

For those unfamiliar, Pratt & Whitney stands as a global leader in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. Their ongoing commitment to innovation and efficiency in engine production reflects a deep understanding of both current and future defense needs.

As the demand for advanced military technology increases, Pratt & Whitney remains at the forefront, poised to deliver high-performance solutions that meet the challenges faced by today’s military landscape. Their strategic initiatives not only enhance operational success for the U.S. and its allies but also foster economic growth within the aerospace sector.

For a deeper insight into their operations, Pratt & Whitney invites interested parties to visit their website at prattwhitney.com.

About RTX

RTX is a prominent player in the aerospace and defense sector, employing over 180,000 individuals globally. The company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and science, redefining connectivity, and providing solutions that secure and protect. With a 2025 sales forecast exceeding $88 billion, RTX aims to advance both aviation and defense systems, catering to the world's evolving critical challenges.