Rolls-Royce will complete initial testing of the F130 engine for the US Air Force B-52J Stratofortress by the end of 2023, and the company is on track to begin its Critical Design Review in Q1 of 2024.

The company’s supply chain and assembly are also on schedule to deliver ground and flight test engines on time between 2024 and 2026.

Rolls-Royce has achieved all its initial goals for the Rapid Twin Pod Tests at NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, gathering a wealth of data early in the program to de-risk the integration of the F130 engine onto the B-52J.

Candice Bineyard, director, programs – defense, commented, “We are thrilled with the progress we have 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 Air Force 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 and are expected to remain on wing for the remainder of the aircraft life.

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