The Air Force’s words are not very reassuring to James Guyette, CEO of Rolls Royce North America. He told the Senate Armed Services Committee that, if the F136 engine actually is canceled, Pratt & Whitney will enjoy an engine monopoly for the life of the 5,000 aircraft JSF run. This, said Guyette, would effectively eliminate Rolls and GE from the tactical fighter engine market for the foreseeable future. Sen. John Warner (R-Va.), the panel’s chairman, said the US faced a “gargantuan” decision.
Like a new car from the dealership, an HH-60W helicopter touched down at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on Nov. 2 with paperwork, a set of keys, and that fresh-from-the-factory smell. The newly activated 5th Helicopter Squadron accepted its first “Whiskey” in a brief but pomp-filled ceremony attended by the Air…