Rolls-Royce ,
INDIANAPOLIS: Rolls-Royce has been selected to develop technology for the ADVENT program, the next-generation propulsion system for the US Air Force. The work will be carried out at the Group's LibertyWorks(TM) research unit at Indianapolis, IN.
The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) announced the agreement, which is valued at up to $296 million over two phases of the program.
ADVENT (Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology) is a technology demonstrator program funded by AFRL and focused on variable cycle features for future US Military aerospace platforms. The goal is to enable a high-thrust capability and a separate loiter operation with reduced fuel consumption.
LibertyWorks, known officially as Rolls-Royce North American Technologies Inc., has a long history of innovative service to the US military. It has contributed technology to the F-35 Lightning II LiftFan and F136 engine; the IHPTET (Integrated High Performance Turbine Engine Technology) program; and the RATTLRS supersonic missile.
Phil Burkholder, Chief Operating Officer for LibertyWorks, said: “We are extremely pleased to be working with the Air Force Research Laboratory in developing a new generation of propulsion technology. It's an exciting time in aviation history. Working together with the AFRL, we will deliver some lasting changes that will dramatically reduce fuel consumption.”
Dennis Jarvi, President Defense North America for Rolls-Royce, said: “LibertyWorks is a demonstrated leader in advanced technology propulsion programs for the US Department of Defense. This selection reflects the confidence our customer has in the capability of Rolls-Royce to meet the future propulsion system needs of the US Air Force.”
NOTES TO EDITORS
1. LibertyWorks(TM) was previously known as Allison Advanced Development Co. (AADC).
2. Rolls-Royce is a significant industry player in North America, with some 8,000 employees at more than 64 US locations in 26 states and eight Canadian sites in six provinces.
3. The US Department of Defense is the Group's biggest single defense customer. Rolls-Royce engines produced in the US and UK power the C-130, C-27J, V-22, Global Hawk, T-45, AV-8 Harrier and other military aircraft. In June 2007, Rolls-Royce was selected to power the Joint Cargo Aircraft (JCA) program for the US Army and US Air Force.
4. Headquartered outside of Washington, D.C., in Chantilly, Virginia, Rolls-Royce North America provides management direction and corporate support for all Rolls-Royce businesses and operations in the region. Annual sales in North America are more than $4 billion and the company's total U.S. investment stands at $1 billion and growing.
5. Globally, Rolls-Royce has a broad customer base comprising 600 airlines, 4,000 corporate and utility aircraft and helicopter operators, 160 armed forces, more than 2,000 marine customers, including 70 navies, and energy customers in 120 countries. Rolls-Royce is a technology leader, employing 38,000 people in offices, manufacturing and service facilities in 50 countries.
