Episode Summary
In episode 45 of the Aerospace Advantage podcast, F-35: Getting Healthy, or Hard Broke? Part 2, Mitchell Institute explores the status of America’s newest fighter engine with top experts from Pratt and Whitney. Fighter aircraft are generally viewed by the general public as airframes—their fuselages, wings, and tail giving them unmistakable, unique shapes. However, it takes incredibly sophisticated jet engine technology to bring these airplanes to life. The F-35’s engine is a game changer—embodying state of the art materials and design techniques that have revolutionized jet propulsion. Bottom line, no fighter has ever been fitted with such a powerful engine. But inventing new technology involves challenges and the F-35’s engine is no exception to this process. Improvements need to be made to deliver on key reliability and cost targets that will allow the F-35 to meet long-term objectives. Learn more about this process by hearing from key engine team members.
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Guests
Amanda GlodeExecutive Director for F35 Sustainment, Pratt and WhitneyTim “Picard” ForsytheLead Integrator for the Combat Air Forces, Pratt and Whitney
Maj Gen Larry Stutzriem, USAF (Ret.)Director of Research, Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies
Doug BirkeyExecutive Director, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies
Heather PenneySenior Resident Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace StudiesHost
John BaumSenior Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace StudiesCredits
Producer
Daniel C. Rice
Executive Producer
Douglas Birkey