Rolls-Royce lands LiftSystems contract to support F-35

Rolls-Royce has been awarded a $195.5 million contract to produce and support LiftSystems for the F-35 Lightning II program, the unique technology that provides vertical-lift for 5th-generation combat aircraft.

The Rolls-Royce LiftSystem enables F-35B aircraft to perform short takeoffs and vertical landings (STOVL) and is currently in service with the US Marine Corps in Yuma, Arizona.

The final agreement with Pratt & Whitney for the fifth production lot includes three complete LiftSystems, spares, sustainment, program management, engineering and field support.

Rolls-Royce has delivered 35 LiftSystems and has expanded field support to include five bases which are flying F-35B aircraft.

Rolls-Royce recently delivered the 50th 3-Bearing Swivel Module (3BSM) and 40th LiftFan for F-35B aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin, and is on schedule for LiftSystem deliveries.

The unique 3BSM is a swivelling exhaust capable of redirecting the rear thrust from the horizontal to the vertical position, tilting downward 95 degrees in only 2.5 seconds.

The LiftFan is a two-stage, counter-rotating, blisked fan installed just behind the cockpit of the F-35B, providing 20,000 lbs. of downward thrust.

The LiftSystem also includes two roll posts on the wings to provide stabilizing downward thrust.

Rolls-Royce is supporting the US Marine Corps in preparation for upcoming sea trials with F-35B aircraft, as well as the process moving toward Initial Operational Capability in 2015.