Rolls-Royce supplying F-35B components

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RESTON, Va., May 2 (UPI) -- Rolls-Royce has received a $315 million contract for technology that enables a variant of the F-35 aircraft to perform short take-offs vertical landings.

The order for 17 Rolls-Royce LiftSystems for F-35B Lightning II jets was given by engine-maker Pratt and Whitney. The LiftSystem comprises a Rolls-Royce LiftFan, Roll Posts and a 3-Bearing Swivel Module.

Rolls-Royce, a subcontractor to Pratt and Whitney, said the 17 systems will be produced this year. It is the fourth lot of low-rate initial production LiftSystems and that a fifth LRIP is expected to be received before the year is out. So far, 32 of the systems have been delivered under earlier orders.

"Rolls-Royce continues to focus on increasing efficiency as we provide this vital capability to the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program," said Neil Mehta, Rolls-Royce LiftSystem Program director. "We anticipate continuous cost improvements as production volumes ramp up to meet the needs of the F-35 program."

Pratt and Whitney is supplying its F135 engines for the F-35 Lightning II program.