Rolls-Royce explores future RR300 applications with Rotorway International

Rolls-Royce announced today that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Rotorway International to discuss future RR300-powered helicopter applications. The announcement came on the first official day of EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

The RR300 engine, launched in 2007 as powerplant for the Robinson Helicopter R66, embodies new technology and advanced design methodology. The engine draws on the proven record of other Rolls-Royce turbine engines to deliver a powerful, dependable powerplant at a competitive price.

Ken Roberts, President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter Engine business said: “We are pleased to be in discussions with Rotorway on the RR300. Rotorway has fielded a significant number of well-regarded piston-powered helicopters, and we look forward to exploring future civil-certified additions to their product range powered by the RR300.”

The RR300 is one of five new civil engine programs to be launched in 24 months. Its development program has progressed quickly since its 2007 launch, receiving FAA type certification in December 2007, followed by production certification in early 2008 and delivery of the first production engine in March of this year.

Key attributes of the RR300 include: lower acquisition and operating costs; low-weight, compact design; improved specific fuel consumption; an embedded engine monitoring system; and ability to burn a variety of commonly available jet fuels.


Note to Editors

1. Rolls-Royce is the world-leading producer of light turbine engines in the helicopter market. The Model 250 line has produced nearly 30,000 engines, with approximately 16,000 currently in service worldwide in a range of aircraft styles. Rolls-Royce delivers more than 300 Model 250 engines annually.
2. Rolls-Royce turboshaft and turboprop engines provide power in the 300 shp to more than 6,000 shp range, powering over 200 aircraft to date including the O&N Silver Eagle P210; AgustaWestland Super Lynx 300; Lockheed Martin C-130J; Saab 2000 and the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey. This creates a broad base of market opportunities for both rotary and fixed-winged aircraft.
3. Rolls-Royce, the world-leading provider of power systems and services for use on land, at sea and in the air, operates in four global markets; civil aerospace, defence aerospace, marine and energy.
4. It continues to invest in core technologies, products, people and capabilities with the objective of broadening and strengthening the product portfolio, improving efficiency and enhancing the environmental performance of its products. These investments create high barriers to entry.
5. The success of its products is demonstrated by rapid and substantial gains in market share. The company now has a total of 54,000 gas turbines in service worldwide and they generate a demand for high-value services throughout their operational lives.
6. 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.