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The Lockheed Martin X-35B relied upon a unique propulsion system to achieve short-takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) flight. At the center of the system is a Pratt & Whitney JSF 119-PW-611 turbofan that powered both conventional and STOVL versions of the X-35. Rolls-Royce developed an shaft-driven lift fan attached at the front and a three-bearing swivel-duct nozzle at the rear to generate downward thrust and bleed air reaction control valves called roll control ducts at the sides to provide stability at low speeds.

This integrated system enabled the X-35B to achieve the world's first short takeoff, level supersonic dash, and vertical landing in a single flight on July 20, 2001. The partners in its development, which also included Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems, received the prestigious Collier Trophy for 2001 from the National Aeronautics Association.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Modern Military Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Modern Military Aviation
Object Details
Date 2001 Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Manufacturer Rolls-Royce North America, Inc.
United Technologies Corporation, Pratt & Whitney Division
 Physical Description Type: Turbofan, Twin-Spool, Augmented Thrust: 186.9 kN (42,000 lb) Total Vertical Lift Thrust: 164.6 kN (37,000 lb) Fan: Bypass ratio 0.45, 3-stage Compressor: 6 stage axial Combustor: Annular Turbine: Single stage axial high-pressure, single stage axial low pressure Weight: 1,771 kg (3,900 lb) Dimensions Length 516 cm (16.9 ft), Diameter 120 cm (46 in.) (Approximate)
 Inventory Number A20060147000 Credit Line Transfer from the Department of Defense Joint Strike Fighter Program Office Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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