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.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.