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GKN Fokker (Hoogeveen, the Netherlands) has signed an agreement with Pratt & Whitney (East Hartford, Conn., U.S.) for the initial production of advanced composite parts for the F135 engine, which powers the fifth generation F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft.

The contract expands GKN Aerospace’s involvement in the F135 program and reinforces the company’s role as a long-term supplier of engine components for Pratt & Whitney.

“This agreement reaffirms the success of the F-35 and F135 industrial participation program in the Netherlands,” says Hans Buthker, chief executive of GKN Aerospace. “We are proud to be part of the F135 team and to expand our longstanding relationship with Pratt & Whitney.”

GKN Aerospace also manufactures wiring systems and covered engine components for the F135. The wiring systems are manufactured in the Netherlands, and the covered engine components are manufactured in Norway.

“This award underscores Pratt & Whitney’s commitment to F135 engine industrial participation in the Netherlands,” says Caroline Cooper, senior director, International Business Development, Pratt & Whitney Military Engines. “GKN Fokker competed globally and was selected as the best value supplier of these engine components, and will play a valuable role in our global supply chain for the F135 engine, as we continue to reduce the cost of the propulsion system.”