In 2022, the focus was on Finland’s logistical support of F-16 and F-15 engines. This stirred conversations around Patria and American engine maker Pratt & Whitney’s intent to prolong their military supplies partnership.
F-16s are powered by F100-PW-220/220E engines while F100-PW-229 drives the F-15. Patria remains Pratt & Whitney’s key ally, and the Finnish enterprise is optimistic and ready “to be integrated into the global Pratt & Whitney F100 support network, aspiring to be the best logistical support provider, inclusive of maintenance. F100 repairs and overhaul.”
Patria has substantial potential to emerge as a “global leader” for maintaining the Pratt & Whitney F100. Moreover, Patria and Pratt & Whitney are initiating a cooperative working group, tasked with outlining a cooperation strategy for 2022.
Photo by Todd R. McQueen
The F-35s are slated to replace the Air Force’s McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet jets that are nearing their shelf life. These aircraft are marked for decommissioning by 2030. The initial order of F-35s is slated for delivery and deployment to Arctic air bases in Finland’s Lapland region by 2026.
The aspect of industrial cooperation in the F-35 acquisition agreement is anticipated to grow incrementally until 2030. The escalation of this industrial agreement might include manufacturing or assembling specific components and systems used in the aircraft in Finland.
F-35 Block 4 engine
The engine powering this advanced aircraft is the Pratt & Whitney F135. The F135 is a potent fighter engine, providing over 40,000 pounds of thrust and unprecedented acceleration capabilities.
Photo credit: Pratt&Whitney
The F135 engine is distinguished by its cutting-edge technology and design. It showcases a three-stage fan, a six-stage high-pressure compressor, and a two-stage high-pressure turbine. Furthermore, the engine is equipped with stealth technology, reducing its radar cross-section and infrared signature. As a result, it becomes exceedingly difficult to detect the aircraft.
The technical data of the engine is awe-inspiring. It possesses a maximum diameter of 46 inches, a length of 220 inches, and a dry weight of approximately 3,750 pounds. The F135 engine can attain a top speed surpassing Mach 1.6, providing the F-35 Block 4 with superior speed capabilities.
The F135 engine also endows the F-35 Block 4 with extraordinary maneuverability. The thrust vectoring capabilities of the engine allow the aircraft to perform intricate maneuvers that are beyond the realm of possibility for most other aircraft. This includes the capacity to hover, take off vertically, and land vertically, an attribute exceptionally beneficial in tight spaces or aircraft carriers.
Moreover, the F135 engine employs a modular design, dramatically simplifying maintenance and mitigating operational costs. The components of the engine can be easily replaced, considerably truncating the maintenance and repair timeline.
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Source link : https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/03/02/64-suomi-f-35s-secured-a-brand-new-f-35-facility-near-nokia/
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Publish date : 2024-03-02 08:00:00
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