Rolls-Royce will consider local sourcing for the RTM322 helicopter engine plus the insertion of US-specific technology, should it be selected as part of ongoing competitions in the US, the company said yesterday at the show.
Speaking about the future potential for R-R in the military and civil sectors, Stuart Mullan, president, helicopters, said the move would make sense if the AgustaWestland US101, which is powered by the RTM322, were successful in upcoming contests. R-R is teamed with Turboméca on the powerplant.
Mullan outlined the growth areas he expects to see for R-R's helicopter business over the next 10 years. The military sector and military upgrades have the strongest prospects, he confirmed, with the civil sector forecast remaining almost flat.
Mullan saluted the achievements of the RTM322, which in 2001 was successful in every competition it entered. The powerplant is now on 70% of all AgustaWestland EH101s ordered and has been selected by 85% of all NH Industries NH90 customers. There are now upwards of 1,100 RTM322s on order or on option.
In a first export success the powerplant has been selected as part of Australia's acquisition of the Eurocopter Tiger attack helicopter.
Source: Flight Daily News
