Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies Corp. company, was awarded a contract for $46 million to provide F100-PW-229 Enhanced Engine Package (EEP) engines to power the Egyptian Air Force's new fleet of 20 F-16 aircraft. This contract covers engines to support the initial aircraft production for the Egyptian Air Force's F-16 Block 52 aircraft purchase. The F100-PW-229 EEP is the latest evolution of Pratt & Whitney's F100 family. Pratt & Whitney plans to begin deliveries of F100-PW-229 EEP engines in 2011.

"We are honored The Egyptian Air Force has chosen to return to Pratt & Whitney to provide power for their new F-16 fighters," said Bill Begert, Vice President of Business Development for Pratt & Whitney. "We believe the capability, safety and reliability of the F100-PW-229 EEP engine, coupled with Pratt & Whitney's commitment to the readiness of the Egyptian Air Force, offer unmatched operating performance. We look forward to continuing our long and successful relationship."

The F100-PW-229 engine provides the Egyptian Air Force a lower total cost of ownership and an outstanding record of safety. Incorporating the latest technologies, this propulsion system provides advanced, dependable power for F-16 fighter aircraft around the world. To date, the F100-PW-229 powered aircraft fleet has logged more than 1.7 million flight hours in more than 18 years of operational service.

Incorporation of the F100-PW-229 EEP increases the engine depot inspection interval from seven to 10 years, providing up to a 30 percent life cycle cost reduction over the life of the engine. The EEP offers significant safety benefits; reducing the predicted in-flight shutdown rate by up to 25 percent. The F100-PW-229 is the only fighter engine funded and qualified by the U.S. Air Force to the 6,000 cycle capability.