Rolls Royce is on track to conclude its initial F130 engine testing for the US Air Force B-52J Stratofortress bomber by the end of this year.
Testing began earlier this year at NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi and has accomplished its initial goals.
The large amount of data gathered during the process further helps de-risk the integration of the F130 engine into the B-52J.
Engine Delivery in 2024
Following the testing, a critical design review will begin in the first quarter of 2024.
The ground and flight test engines are scheduled for delivery from 2024 through 2026.
“The engines are operating perfectly so far – matching all of our predictions on inlet performance,” Rolls Royce Director Programs, Defense Candice Bineyard said.
“We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with the Air Force and Boeing as we complete testing at NASA Stennis Space Center and prepare for critical design review.”
B-52 Upgrades
The US Air Force is upgrading the six-decade-old B-52H fleet, including engine, radar, and communication and navigation equipment.
The re-engining will extend the aircraft’s life another three decades.
Around 600 new engines are expected to be delivered.
