Sea trials have concluded for the F-35B Lightning II’s short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft. Flying under the power of Pratt & Whitney’s F135 propulsion system, two STOVL variants conducted 72 short takeoffs and vertical landings, for a total of 260 vertical landings in the programme.

The three-week sea trial period was conducted aboard the USS Wasp sailing from Norfolk Naval Base in Norfolk, Virginia.

Colonel Roger Cordell, Director, Test & Evaluation for F-35 Naval Variants, F-35 Integrated Test Force, said “The first time you bring a new aircraft to the maritime environment is complex and dangerous, and keeping risks at an acceptable level requires an enormous collective effort. The incredible teamwork by the crew of the USS Wasp, the Integrated Test Force, Lockheed Martin, BAE, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce was essential to trial’s tremendous success. We’re looking forward to getting this aircraft in the hands of the warfighter.” Key events included operating two F-35B aircraft on deck, at the same time, in both landing and takeoff operations.

“This is a significant and historic achievement for the F-35 programme and the F135 propulsion system,” said Chris Flynn, Vice President F135/F119 engine programmes. “Beginning with the ‘first ever’ F-35B vertical landing to take place on a ship on October 3, the F135 provided dependable performance throughout the series of rigorous tests. We are meeting our goals on performance and affordability at this critical time for the F-35B programme.”

The P&W F135 powers the F-35 Lightning II and the engine is in production. P&W has delivered all 18 F135 flight test engines required for the programme as well as 32 production engines. The F135 propulsion system has powered more than 1,400 flight tests, 2,150 flight hours and more than 260 vertical landings.