Pratt & Whitney tells ANN that they have completed a series
of crosswind validation tests for the F135
short-takeoff/vertical-landing (STOVL) engine at its test facility
in West Palm Beach, Florida. A Pratt & Whitney Canada PT-6
turboprop engine was used to simulate crosswinds of up to 35 knots
(40 mph) across the inlet of the lift fan as the F135 propulsion
system simulated flying in STOVL mode at power settings up to full
power.