MTU Aero Engines has for the first time secured a major risk-sharing stake in a US military engine programme, taking 18% of GE Aviation's GE38 turboshaft for the Sikorsky CH-53K heavylift helicopter.
The German manufacturer is taking responsibility for the development and production of the power turbine module, and will also assemble, test and support GE38s purchased by European customers. It estimates the contract will generate revenues for MTU of "roughly two billion euros" over the life of the GE38 programme, with potential sales of "up to 6,000 engines, covering a variety of other turboshaft and turboprop applications".
The US Marine Corps is expected to acquire 156 three-engined CH-53Ks to replace its CH-53E Super Stallions. The agreement between GE and MTU also covers the supply of engines for the proposed Eurocopter/Sikorsky European Heavy Transport Helicopter, which could replace Germany's ageing CH-53s.
The 7,500shp (5,590kW) GE38 draws on technology developed as part of the GE27 demonstrator programme and stillborn T407 turboprop for the US Navy. GE38 component rig tests are due to begin this month in preparation for first full engine run in early 2009. Flight tests are scheduled for 2011.
The turboshaft has five axial compressor stages and one centrifugal, a two-stage gas generator turbine and three-stage power turbine, and dual-channel full authority digital engine control. GE says the GE38 will provide 57% more power, 18% better specific fuel consumption and has 60% fewer parts than the T64 powering the existing CH-53E.
Source: Flight International
