Kongsberg Facility Becomes Second F135 MRO&U Outside the US

Kongsberg has declared an initial operating capability for its F135 engine maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade facility at Rygge Air Base.

The site has met all the requirements to satisfy the Initial Depot Capability standard, the company’s Aviation Maintenance Services division stated. The depot can work on Pratt & Whitney engines that power all three variants of the Joint Strike Fighter. Having declared the capability, work to support F-35 users will begin immediately.

“We congratulate the Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance team on reaching this critical sustainment milestone for the F135 engine,” commented Andre McMillian, P&W’s VP for military engines sustainment operations. “The activation of the Norway depot will increase capacity to the global F135 MRO&U network and ensure additional capability for our allies. Standing up the regional MRO&U depots is an integral part of the enterprise’s strategy to assure sustainment readiness across the F135 MRO&U network to exceed program requirements.”

“This is a significant event and an important milestone for Norway and the global F-35 partnership,” observed Norway’s Defence Minister, Odd Roger Enoksen. “Additionally, this brings opportunities to the Norwegian defense industry and adds weight to our ambition to be a highly competent and trustworthy partner within the F- 35 programme.“