What Happened
Air Force Looks To Overhaul Fighter Engine Procurement Amid Quality Issues
The US Air Force is seeking new jet engine manufacturers due to significant challenges with the current industrial base, including production delays, quality control issues, and critical obsolescence. The Air Force aims to procure over 180 engines per year by 2034, with a focus on total lifecycle cost and supply chain resiliency. This initiative comes as the Air Force struggles with engine issues, including delays in F-35 fighter deliveries and upgrades, and stalled B-52 modernization. The Air Force’s Request for Information, as reported by an unknown source, promises a paradigm shift in engine procurement and sustainment, with a focus on incentivizing industry-led technological evolution and capacity expansion.