Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce will join forces to provide comprehensive technical support at the Royal Air Force Marham to support F135 engines and the LiftSystems on the UK’s F-35B Lightning II aircraft. The two industry-leading engine companies will institute a performancebased logistics (PBL) approach to sustainment for the propulsion systems. A PBL contracting structure incentivises contractors to focus on outcomes such as propulsion system availability, leading to greater efficiencies, mutual cost reductions, and operator benefits. The companies formalised the new working relationship by signing a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to increase levels of cooperation and improve synergy as they join forces in support of the customer.

The agreement defines how the companies will collaborate and grow their sustainment capabilities. Pratt & Whitney, lead propulsion integrator for the F-35 programme, will focus primarily on system-level performance of its F135 engines. Rolls-Royce will lead on support for the LiftSystem technology the company developed and produced, while also undertaking some delegated support work on the main F135 engine. The two companies will also look to duplicate this support model for other F-35B customers.