Pratt & Whitney secures $1.5B contract to sustain F-22 Raptor engines

RTX’s Pratt & Whitney has been awarded a $1.5 billion contract from the Air Force to sustain the F119 engines powering the F-22 Raptor, as reported by Air & Space Forces Magazine. The three-year contract covers integrated logistics support, including engineering, forecasting, and parts procurement for more than 400 engines.

The contract comes as the Air Force reassesses the timeline for the F-22’s retirement amid delays in the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. Originally slated for replacement starting in 2030, the F-22 is undergoing modernization efforts, including sensor upgrades and new weapon integrations, which Pratt officials say will require continued engine improvements, per Aerotime.

Pratt is incorporating its Usage-Based Lifing (UBL) system into the contract, leveraging real-time data to optimize maintenance and extend engine lifespan. The company estimates UBL will save tax-payers nearly $800 million over the engine’s life cycle through unnecessary maintenance reductions and spare parts procurement.

Pratt is also pursuing software updates to increase engine thrust and is exploring additive manufacturing to improve supply chain efficiency. Discussions with the Air Force and Lockheed Martin are ongoing as the Raptor’s service life is extended.