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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

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