Pratt & Whitney officials say the company’s F135 Joint Strike Fighter engine has been cleared to power the F-35 Lightning II on its first flight. The F135 has achieved initial flight release from the F-35 joint program office after completing all tests and verification reports, according to an Oct. 23 company statement. The engine will power the F-35 conventional take-off and landing version. The F135 has amassed more than 6,000 hours in ground engine runs and completed full afterburner tests. Taxi tests are slated for later this fall.
NATO Cancels Plan to Buy E-7 Wedgetails
Nov. 13, 2025
Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.orgNATO is abandoning its effort to buy E-7 Wedgetails to replace its...


