Rolls-Royce LiftSystem

The Rolls-Royce LiftSystem is the vertical lift part of the propulsion system of the F-35B, the short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. Together with the Pratt and Whitney F135 engine it forms the Integrated Lift Fan Propulsion System, which was awarded the Collier Trophy in 2001. Instead of separate lift engines or rotating bypass nozzles as on the Harrier, it combines a shaft-driven LiftFan, designed by Lockheed Martin and developed by Rolls-Royce, with a three-bearing swivel module that turns the exhaust nozzle downward and two roll posts that use engine bypass air for lateral control. Rolls-Royce managed the overall development and integration programme in Bristol, and the X-35B demonstrator flew with it in 2001.