Rolls-Royce Scores Major Contract
In October
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowRolls-Royce in Indianapolis has been awarded a major contract for the production of LiftSystems for the F-35B Lightning II fighter jet. The $216 million deal with Pratt & Whitney calls for 13 LiftSystems, along with additional labor, spares and tooling.
A spokesman for Rolls-Royce says the assembly work will be performed at the company’s LiftSystem facility in Plainfield. Testing work will be conducted at the company’s Tibbs Avenue facility in Indianapolis.
The LiftSystem, which is powered by F135 engines produced by Pratt & Whitney, allows the aircraft to perform short take-offs and vertical landings. It also gives the aircraft hovering capabilities.
"This new contract reflects continued confidence in the technology and capability of the Rolls-Royce LiftSystem," said Chris Cholerton, president of defense for Rolls-Royce. "At the same time, we continue to focus on improving affordability for the customer, driving improvements into our production system. Rolls-Royce is proud to be involved in the F-35B Lightning II program, the most advanced fighter jet in production in the world today."
Both Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney have also agreed to provide technical support to Royal Air Force Marham in the United Kingdom for the F135 engines and LiftSystems on the base’s F-35B Lightning II aircraft.