Rolls-Royce says it is on track to complete initial F130 engine testing for the Air Force's B-52 Stratofortress by the end of 2023.
The Continued Rapid Twin Pod Tests at the NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC), Miss., have accomplished Rolls-Royce’s initial goals and allowed for the gathering of unprecedented amounts of data early in the program, further avoiding risks of the integration of the F130 engine onto the B-52J.
Testing will continue throughout the year. Rolls-Royce is on track for Critical Design Review to begin in Q1 of 2024. Rolls-Royce’s supply chain and assembly are also on schedule to deliver ground and flight test engines on time for 2024-26.
Candice Bineyard, director of defense programs, Aerospace Manufacturing: “We are thrilled with the progress ... made with this milestone testing program. The engines are operating perfectly so far - matching all of our predictions on inlet performance. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with the Air Force and Boeing as we complete testing at NASA Stennis Space Center and prepare for Critical Design Review.”
In September 2021, Rolls-Royce F130 engines were selected by the AF to replace the existing powerplants in the B-52 fleet, with over 600 new engine deliveries expected.
The new engines will extend the life of the B-52 aircraft for 30 years.
F130 engines will be manufactured, assembled and tested at Rolls-Royce facilities in Indianapolis. (Aerospace Manufacturing 09/12/23)
No comments:
Post a Comment