Rolls-Royce has developed a major upgrade for the T56 turboprop that powers the world's fleets of Lockheed Martin C-130Hs, Northrop Grumman E-2Cs and Lockheed P-3Cs.
The T56 3.5 upgrade programme targets a 7-12% reduction in fuel consumption for C-130Hs, or improves thrust for take-off and lift performance, says Dennis Jarvi, president of R-R's North American defence business.
A similar upgrade for the T56 2.0 series, which powers E-2C and P-3C fleets, is also in discussions with the US Navy, Jarvi says.
Rolls plans to make the first upgrade kits for C-130Hs available to the US Air Force in 2010, he says.
The USAF has provided R-R with four engines to make the 3.5 modifications, which includes redesigned compressor and turbine blades, as well as a new inlet housing, Jarvi says.
The USAF is still deciding how to fund the upgrade programme, he adds. The USAF could simply upgrade older engines as they enter scheduled depot-level maintenance. Alternatively, the USAF could accelerate the rate of replacement by using funds generated by the promised fuel savings.
Jarvi also says he expects international T56 operators to "fall into line" after the USAF begins ordering the upgraded engines.
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Source: Flight Daily News
