F-35 JPO insists on F135 Engine Core Upgrade for fifth-generation fighter instead of developing adaptive propulsion system

The F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) has responded to the controversy that erupted following Lockheed Martin's CEO's statement regarding the need to develop an adaptive engine for the fighter. The JPO believes it is unnecessary.

Here's What We Know

To begin with, recall that Greg Ulmer, Lockheed Martin's chief executive, said at the Paris Air Show that the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet needs an adaptive engine. It would allow for more power and cooling, which is needed before the Block 4 upgrade.

The adaptive propulsion system is incompatible with the F-35B, so Lockheed Martin's CEO believes the F135 engine needs to be upgraded in parallel. Pratt & Whitney, the developer of the F135, said Lockheed was undermining the Pentagon's decision to improve the current propulsion system.

The JPO also insists the Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) is needed. The office believes the upgrade will meet all future power needs of the fifth-generation fighter. It supports the decision to upgrade the F135 ECU, which was taken after an analysis carried out in conjunction with industry.

Lieutenant General Michael J. Schmidt, director of the JPO, was very diplomatic when asked whether the F-35 programme was in danger because of the Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney dispute. He expects the industry partners to work together to meet the requirements set by the US Department of Defense so that the fighters have everything they need to perform their missions.

Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine