Pratt & Whitney and United States Air Force Sign $5.5 Billion Contract Modification

Pratt & Whitney, a business under RTX RTX, has announced a significant milestone with the signing of a $5.5 billion modification to the existing F117 Engine Sustainment Support contract. The contract, awarded by the United States Air Force (USAF), aims to provide engine services for C-17s operated by the USAF and eight international partners. This modification reinforces the commitment to the readiness, affordability, and sustainability objectives of the U.S. Air Force. The sustainment work, set to take place between now and the second half of 2027, will be conducted at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, as well as facilities in San Francisco and Columbus, Georgia.

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Engine Performance Improvement Package to Enhance Efficiency and Reduce Costs

As part of the contract modification, Pratt & Whitney will introduce an engine performance improvement package that will bring substantial benefits to the USAF and its international partners. The implementation of this package is projected to eliminate over 20 shop visits per year through extended time on wing, resulting in significant cost savings. It is estimated that the package will save the customer approximately $29 million per year in fuel costs.

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Fuel Efficiency Enhancements and Environmental Impact Reduction

Pratt & Whitney's engine performance improvement package is designed to enhance the fuel efficiency of the F117 engine, which will have a positive environmental impact. The upgraded package is expected to save up to 6.5 million gallons of fuel annually and reduce CO2 emissions by up to 140 million pounds per year. By incorporating these enhancements, the F117 engines will become even more dependable, safe, and reliable, making them a benchmark for propulsion technology globally.

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Pratt & Whitney's Long-Standing Partnership with the USAF

For over three decades, Pratt & Whitney has been a trusted partner of the United States Air Force in the development, production, and sustainment of the F117 engine. The F117 engine serves as the exclusive powerplant for the Globemaster III transport aircraft and has accumulated an impressive flight time of over 17 million hours, supporting various military and humanitarian missions worldwide. The engine's continuous product improvements have surpassed established goals for time on-wing, in-flight shutdowns, and reduced turnaround time.

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Advancements and Collaborative Efforts

Pratt & Whitney's collaboration with the United States Air Force extends beyond the F117 engine. This latest contract modification leverages technologies that have already been successfully incorporated into other engine models. The upgraded hardware will be seamlessly integrated into routine planned engine maintenance procedures once all engineering changes are completed, Service Bulletin publication is finalized, and all parts are industrialized. By drawing on proven advancements, Pratt & Whitney aims to deliver reliable and efficient engine performance.

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Compressor Blade Coating Technology to Boost Durability and Efficiency

Under the new contract, Pratt & Whitney is keen on incorporating a compressor blade coating technology that can significantly enhance the engine's durability and efficiency. Estimates from the Air Force Research Laboratory suggest that this technology could extend time on wing by up to 16% and reduce fuel burn by over 1%. By focusing on product improvements that benefit both the Air Force and the environment, Pratt & Whitney aims to achieve a win-win outcome.