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F-35 alternate engine encounters a hitch
Problem found in one of the test engines for the fighter jet is unlikely to affect others being built, contractors say.
General Electric and Rolls Royce on Tuesday reported an "anomaly" with one of their test engines for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, but said they do not believe the problem affects other engines being built for the stealthy jet.
"All indications are that the cause of the incident is unique to this engine, and the other test engines are continuing to run," spokesmen for the two companies said in an e-mail.
An initial inspection of the engine revealed damage to airfoils in the front fan and compressor area, but the engine is being disassembled for a more thorough investigation.
Congress and the White House have been locked in a disagreement over whether to continue the alternate engine program.