F136 Makes the Cut, With Reluctance

Earlier this month I asked if we think the government should continue to fund the General Electric F136 as an alternative engine for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Our response was mixed, and it appears that the same goes for the government. As reported by the The Washington Post, President Obama has officially approved a defense authorization bill that includes $560 Million in funding for the F136 program.

Although he signed the bill, the Post quotes the President as saying, "This bill isn't perfect. This bill is an important step forward, but it's just a first step. There's still more waste we need to cut..." The President has been opposed to the F136 program, but it appears that he had to choose his battles and the new engine made it through.

GE is a solid company with engines in service all over the world. I'm sure their product will perform well. I suppose all we have left to do is watch how its costs, reliability and performance compare with the P&W F135. It'll be interesting to see if one of the motors does better.