Larson, Courtney, DeLauro, Himes Applaud $256 Million Contract Modification for F135 Production in East Hartford and Cromwell

East Hartford, CT - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Jim Himes (CT-04) applauded the U.S. Navy's announcement of a $256 million contract modificationto support F135 engine production work in East Hartford and Cromwell. They released the following statement:

"This new contract from the Navy will ensure Connecticut's skilled workforce continues to lead the world in aerospace innovation. Heeding our calls to invest in spare engines and parts, these investments will improve military readiness and bolster our manufacturing supply chain - supporting thousands of good-paying jobs across the state. Our entire delegation stands united in support of the machinists, engineers, and suppliers whose hard work will keep the eagle flying here in Connecticut for years to come."

New funding will support spare engines and parts for the Pratt & Whitney F135, improving military readiness. This contract follows the Connecticut delegation's calls for more fundingfor the Air Force and Navy to support more spare engines. Their request to increase these investmentswas signed into law last month.

"Beyond its national security value, the F-35 program is a key driver of the U.S. manufacturing base, supporting over 225,000 high-tech, high-paying jobs across more than 1,800 suppliers, half of which are small or disadvantaged businesses," the lawmakers wrote in their letter to House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders. "We recommend an increase of $500 million for the Air Force and Navy initial spare lines to address backlog, increase spares and depot material, and expand depot repair capacity. This investment will help improve mission capability rates and ensure the F-35 fleet remains ready to meet emerging threats. We also recommend a funding increase for critical spare and repair parts for the F135 engine."