Ramon Lopez/WASHINGTON DC
The US Army plans to procure an Advanced Common Engine (ACE) in the 2,240kW (3,000shp) class for retrofit into in-service Boeing AH-64 Apache and Sikorsky Aircraft UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters.
US Army officials say the as-yet unfunded Common Engine Programme (CEP) is required for the planned UH-60X and an engine upgrade for the AH-64 gunship because no existing turboshaft powerplant, including the General Electric T700 which powers both US military rotorcraft, fits the bill.
While growth versions of current turboshafts may satisfy existing and future range and lift requirements associated with new mission equipment packages, the officials say none would offer significant cuts in specific fuel consumption (SFC) and production/ maintenance costs.
They say GE may be able to further grow the 1,400kW T700-701C, and the 1,870kW CT7-8 (under development for the Sikorsky S-92), and Rolls-Royce Turboméca could offer a 2,240kW version of the RTM322, which was flight tested in a Black Hawk in the 1980s, but the officials believe the ACE, with new core technology, "offers a superior solution."
The CEP would benefit from the multi-service Joint Turbine Advanced Gas Generator Phase II demonstrator involving AlliedSignal. The engine maker is expected to demonstrate a 30% reduction in SFC, an 80% power increase and 20% cut in operating costs.
As envisioned, there will be a four-year $60 million CEP demonstration followed by endurance testing and an engineering and manufacturing development qualification phase valued at $300 million. The cost of the development would be shared by the government and the selected contractor, but the company would fund the CEP during fiscal year 2000. The US Army plans an open "winner-take-all" competition once funding is established. Potential contenders include GE, Rolls-Royce, AlliedSignal and P&W Canada.
Source: Flight International
