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 Pratt & Whitney's F135 engines to provide more thrust and cooling power for the Block 4 upgrades. After the design review, ground testing is scheduled for late 2027, with flight tests starting around 2030. The Government Accountability Office's September 2025 report noted major risks including schedule integration issues 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 delivery of the ECU and power and thermal management upgrade.
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