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Rolls-Royce gets new order for F-35B lift systems

LONDON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Rolls-Royce has received a new contract from Pratt & Whitney to produce more of its LiftSystem aircraft propulsion systems for the F-35 Lightning II program.

LifeSystem is comprised of a lift-fan, roll posts and a three-bearing swivel module that enable short takeoffs and vertical landings. It is for use on the F-35B variant of the aircraft.

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"The innovative Rolls-Royce LiftSystem continues to demonstrate its effectiveness in field operation and in the recent F-35B shipboard trials on the USS Wasp," Rolls-Royce LiftSystem Program Director Dave Gordon said. "As we expand our field support, we remain focused on efficiency and further increasing the affordability of LiftSystems for the F-35B Lightning II."

The new contract -- for the sixth production lot of systems -- is for six propulsion systems, plus sustainment, program management, engineering and field support. It carries a value of $215 million.

Rolls-Royce has so far produced and delivered 42 LiftSystem assemblies, which currently are in service with the U.S. Marine Corps in Yuma, Ariz., where the carrier variant is being tested.

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