Pratt & Whitney's $870 million sustainment contract boosts Oklahoma City's aerospace hub status

Pratt & Whitney has secured a long-term TF33 engine sustainment contract valued at up to $870 million, solidifying Tinker Air Force Base’s crucial role in aerospace and defense operations.  

The TF33 engine is a powerhouse that propels various aircraft, including the iconic Boeing B-52 Stratofortress and the E-3 Sentry. The Defense Logistics Agency's decision to award Pratt & Whitney with this extensive contract is the culmination of a decades-long collaboration with the 448th Supply Chain Management Wing at Tinker Air Force Base. This unique partnership aims to establish a comprehensive sustainment solution and ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the TF33 engines. 

"The TF33 enterprise is maturing beyond the conventional approach to a more complete, advanced sustainment process that will maximize the TF33's support to many missions across the globe through 2050," said Jill Albertelli, President of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney. 

The impact of the contract extends far beyond Pratt & Whitney's operations. Under the agreement, the company will provide comprehensive engine sustainment services for nearly 1,000 engines worldwide over six years, with the option to extend it for another four years. This includes crucial services such as maintenance, spare parts, program management, field service, repairs and engineering support. 

This decision reinforces the strategic importance of Tinker in the overall sustainment process. The contract, running through April 2034, also involves additional U.S. Air Force locations and Pratt & Whitney's Southern Logistics Center in Atlanta. 

Pratt & Whitney announced a $255 million investment in a new Oklahoma City facility earlier this year. The 845,000-square-foot, world-class sustainment facility will serve as a depot operations hub for all Pratt & Whitney military engines. 

This long-term commitment further strengthens Oklahoma City’s role as a crucial aerospace and defense operations hub. The extensive work involved in maintaining and enhancing the TF33 engines will bolster the local economy and elevate Oklahoma City's status as a vital contributor to the nation's defense capabilities.