Northrop Grumman, EVENDALE, Ohio: The recently launched technology upgrade program for the CF6 engine is part of the package offered by Northrop Grumman KC-30 for the United States Air Force KC-X tanker replacement program. Northrop Grumman selected the CF6 in March 2007.
Recently, Finnair selected GE's CF6-80E1 engines to power seven twin-engine, fuel-efficient Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The engines, scheduled for delivery starting in March 2009, will be the first to incorporate the new high-pressure turbine upgrade that is part of the Tech CF6 program.
The Northrop Grumman KC-30 is also powered by the GE CF6-80E1 engine. Since the KC-30 engine is identical to the commercial application, the USAF can potentially benefit from any commercially identified, developed and proven reliability and performance enhancements.
Given the planned USAF KC-X delivery schedule, the USAF would also receive the Tech CF6 program as part of the baseline deliveries with the selection of the KC-30.
In 2006, GE launched the Tech CF6 program to incorporate advanced technology into the engine's high-pressure turbine area. The new technologies include high-pressure turbine airfoil cooling advancements that will enhance operational reliability, lower maintenance costs and improve fuel burn retention. Starting in mid-2008, the Tech CF6 advanced technology will be standard on CF6-80E1 production engines.
GE's CF6 engines have been among the most utilized and reliable in the industry. Powering more than 10 models of wide-body aircraft, the engine has established an unparalleled record of reliability and compiled more than 300 million flight-hours in service with more than 250 customers worldwide. GE and CFM engines currently power more than 80% of the U.S. Air Force tanker fleet.
GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company, is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.
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