Connecticut Jet Engine Maker Secures Major Contracts, Details Work Sites

Pratt & Whitney, a cornerstone of Connecticut’s manufacturing landscape, just landed two big defense contracts. These deals don’t just strengthen the state’s aerospace reputation—they might give the local economy a real boost.

The East Hartford-based jet engine maker secured an $11 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense to make F100 engines for F-15 and F-16 fighter jets. There’s also an $18 million NATO contract to help sustain key alliance aircraft.

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These awards will support jobs in several Connecticut towns. They also reinforce the state’s reputation as a hub for aerospace innovation.

Pratt & Whitney’s $11 Million Defense Department Contract

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, broke the news. He called the agreement a strong vote of confidence in Connecticut’s defense manufacturing sector and praised the skill and precision Pratt & Whitney brings.

Pratt’s facilities in East Hartford and Middletown will handle the work. Both sites have long histories of supplying military engines.

The F100 engine powers some of the U.S. Air Force’s most advanced fighter aircraft. Connecticut workers and engineers take on a big responsibility, meeting national defense needs with proven expertise.

Powering F-15 and F-16 Fighter Jets

F-15 and F-16 aircraft still play a critical role for U.S. and allied air forces. Making F100 engines keeps these fighters reliable and high-performing, just as they’ve been for decades.

The engines from this contract will support ongoing missions. They’ll also help with training and readiness for whatever defense challenges come next.

NATO’s $18 Million AWACS Sustainment Project

In a separate announcement, RTX—the Arlington, Virginia-based parent company of Pratt & Whitney—shared that NATO’s Support and Procurement Agency awarded an $18 million contract. This deal sustains the alliance’s E-3 Sentry AWACS surveillance aircraft fleet.

The agreement stretches over three years, with an option for two more. It focuses on the TF33-powered planes that have anchored NATO’s airborne command and control for over forty years.

The work covers materials management, part forecasting, procurement, and technical support. It’s a pretty involved effort.

International Collaboration with Connecticut at the Center

Much of the sustainment work will happen in East Hartford. Other important locations include NATO’s Geilenkirchen Air Base in Germany and maintenance depots in Turkey and Greece.

This shows how Connecticut’s industry connects to multinational defense initiatives. Local work ends up having a global impact.

Economic Impact on Connecticut Communities

The twin contracts come as a relief after labor unrest earlier this year. About 3,000 unionized Pratt & Whitney workers in Connecticut—many from Manchester, Wethersfield, and Newington—recently ended a three-week strike with a revised agreement.

Stable, high-skill jobs matter a lot for families in communities from Hartford to Bristol, where many employees live.

Sustaining High-Skill Jobs

These awards keep the demand high for machinists, engineers, and support staff. Connecticut’s competitive edge in aerospace manufacturing depends on this kind of work.

It’s not just East Hartford and Middletown—suppliers and subcontractors in towns like Windsor Locks and Southington benefit, too.

Connecticut’s Enduring Aerospace Legacy

For decades, Connecticut has led the way in aerospace innovation. Companies like Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, and Electric Boat in Groton have shaped both national security and the state’s prosperity.

The latest contracts only add to Connecticut’s reputation as a key partner in America’s defense. They also help secure the state’s place in the global security network through NATO.

Production is ramping up in East Hartford and Middletown. International maintenance work is moving forward too.

These changes support workers and strengthen local communities. Connecticut’s reputation as a center for advanced aerospace manufacturing just keeps getting stronger.

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Here is the source article for this story: CT jet engine maker wins large contracts to build engines, more. Here’s where the work will be done.

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