UTC Aerospace Systems has been awarded a $22 million contract to provide the U.S. Air Force upgraded wheels and brakes for their 475 F-15 aircraft.  The contract also has a follow-on option valued at an additional $30 million.  UTC Aerospace Systems is a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:

). The new UTC Aerospace Systems F-15 wheels and brakes feature the latest in technology and industry-leading innovation.  The carbon brakes use proprietary DURACARB® carbon heat sink material that provides four times longer life than the current carbon brake.  The boltless wheels employ a lock ring design, substantially lowering maintenance time and cost, in addition to reduced parts count, when compared to traditional bolted aircraft wheels. The new F-15 wheel and brake equipment is scheduled to begin deliveries to the U.S. Air Force in the summer of 2016.  The equipment will be offered in two versions – one for use on the F-15C/D aircraft, and the other for use on the heavier F-15E aircraft.  Both are similar designs, and share a high degree of parts commonality. "We are pleased the U.S. Air Force has selected our advanced wheel and braking system for their F-15 fighter aircraft," said Jeff Atkinson, director of Military Programs for UTC Aerospace Systems Landing Systems.  "This selection demonstrates their confidence in our innovative and service-proven technology." UTC Aerospace Systems designs, manufactures and services integrated systems and components for the aerospace and defense industries. UTC Aerospace Systems supports a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and customer service facilities. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, provides high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries.