Rolls-Royce RR300 to Power New Robinson Helicopter
Rolls-Royce RR300 to Power New Robinson Helicopter
ORLANDO, Fla., March 5 -- Rolls-Royce, the world-leading provider of power systems and services, will supply a new turboshaft engine to power Robinson Helicopter Company's new R66 rotorcraft, it was announced at Heli Expo.
The new RR300 engine represents a major step forward in the helicopter industry by providing 300 shaft horsepower at takeoff, excellent hot and high performance and outstanding value. The RR300 makes Rolls-Royce turbine power available in the lower shp range.
The new R66 model, a five-seater, is Robinson Helicopter Company's first venture into gas turbine-powered rotorcraft and will complement the company's existing line of piston-powered aircraft.
Rolls-Royce expects FAA type certification by 2008 with full-rate production to follow. Under the agreement with Robinson Helicopter, Rolls- Royce will provide several hundred RR300 engines in upcoming years.
Rolls-Royce is the world-leading producer of light turbine engines in the helicopter market. The Model 250 line has produced nearly 30,000 engines, with approximately 16,000 currently in service worldwide in a wide range of aircraft styles.
The RR300 embodies new technology and advanced design methodology. The engine draws on the proven record of other Rolls-Royce turbine powerplants to deliver a powerful, dependable engine at a competitive price.
Key attributes of the RR300 include: lower acquisition and operating costs; low-weight, compact design; improved specific fuel consumption; an embedded engine monitoring system; and an optional, through-life, peace-of- mind maintenance program.
The new aircraft deal brings together two industry-leading rotorcraft companies.
Scott Crislip, President Helicopters & Small Gas Turbine Engines for Rolls-Royce, said, "We are honored to join with Robinson Helicopter Company on its first turbine-powered aircraft, the R66. We anticipate a great future partnership on this industry-changing aircraft. The RR300 engine represents the latest technology in turbine power and once again Rolls-Royce is leading the way. You will see big things from this small engine."
Robinson Helicopter Company is the world's leading producer of civil helicopters and is known for its high performance, reliable aircraft.
Founded by Frank Robinson, the company sold 806 rotorcraft in 2005, the most civil helicopter sales of any company in the previous 25 years. The company has produced more than 7,000 helicopters overall.
1. Rolls-Royce, the world-leading provider of power systems and services
for use on land, at sea and in the air, operates in four global
markets -- civil aerospace, defence aerospace, marine and energy.
2. It continues to invest in core technologies, products, people and
capabilities with the objective of broadening and strengthening the
product portfolio, improving efficiency and enhancing the environmental
performance of its products. These investments create high barriers to
entry.
3. The success of its products is demonstrated by rapid and substantial
gains in market share. The company now has a total of 54,000 gas
turbines in service worldwide and they generate a demand for high-value
services throughout their operational lives.
4. Rolls-Royce has a broad customer base comprising 600 airlines, 4,000
corporate and utility aircraft and helicopter operators, 160 armed
forces, more than 2,000 marine customers including 70 navies, and
energy customers in 120 countries. Rolls-Royce is a technology leader,
employing 38,000 people in offices, manufacturing and service
facilities in 50 countries.
Website: http://www.rolls-royce.com/
Source: Rolls-Royce
CONTACT:
George McLaren
Senior Communications Manager
Rolls-Royce Corporation
+1-317-230-8260
mobile, +1-317-366-9624
george.h.mclaren@Rolls-Royce.com
Web site: http://www.rolls-royce.com/
