F-35 Engine Core Upgrade to Face Critical Review in August, Flight Testing in 2030
The U.S. Air Force announced that the F-35 fighter's Engine Core Upgrade (ECU) will undergo its critical design review in August, a key milestone for the program. John Sneden, the service's portfolio acquisition executive for propulsion, stated the upgrade is proceeding well. The ECU aims to modify the existing F135 engines to provide more thrust and cooling power needed for the Block 4 upgrades. After the design review, ground testing is scheduled for late 2027, with flight tests beginning around 2030. The Government Accountability Office noted major risks including lack of integrated schedules and immature test plans. The Air Force's 2027 budget request seeks $317.5 million for the F-35 propulsion enterprise, up from $121 million in 2026, to accelerate development and meet target fielding dates.
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