The Japan Defence Agency's Technical Research and Development Institute (TRDI) and industrial partner Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries (IHI) have completed the first test runs of the XF7-1 turbofan.
The engine is under development to power the indigenous P-X maritime patrol aircraft that will replace the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force's 100 Lockheed Martin P-3C Orions. IHI defence systems division general manager Hidemi Haga says initial bench-tests of the two-shaft, 12,000lb-thrust (53kN) XF7-1 technology demonstrator at IHI's Mizuho plant were "very successful".
The high bypass ratio engine is being stripped for inspection, and will be reassembled for further testing from mid-year.
Bench-testing of the first airworthy engine, designated XF7-10, is due to start by the end of this year, says Haga. Mitsubishi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries are also participating in the TRDI-led project.
The P-X will be powered by four turbofans.
Source: Flight International
