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Pratt & Whitney's short takeoff and vertical landing propulsion system for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter demonstrated 39,700 pounds of thrust, the level required for the unique combat aircraft to hover,on 24 May. This demonstration confirmed pretest predictions established for the F135 propulsion system and provided strong evidence that the production configuration of the F135 will achieve specification requirements for hover thrust. The completion of this demonstration marked a significant milestone toward qualifying the F135 engine. At the same time, weight reduction initiatives will result in a STOVL engine weight at three percent to six percent below the contracted target. The weight achievements are critical for F-35B performance.
Photo By Pratt & Whitney
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