Initial F130 engine tests for USAF B-52J bomber due to complete by end 2023
Re-engining the B-52 will extend its service life for 30 years. (Photo: USAF)
Rolls-Royce is on track to complete initial testing of the F130 engine for the B-52J Stratofortress by year-end. The testing programme has achieved success and gathered significant data, de-risking the integration process.
In a statement the company said continued rapid twin pod tests at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi have accomplished all of Rolls-Royce’s initial goals and ‘allowed for the gathering of unprecedented amounts of data early in the program, further de-risking the integration of the F130 engine onto the B-52J'.
Critical design review is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2024 and Rolls-Royce’s supply chain and assembly are also on schedule to deliver ground and flight test engines on time in 2024 through 2026.
In September 2021, Rolls-Royce F130 engines, derived from the BR family of commercial turbofans, were selected by the USAF to replace the existing powerplants in the B-52 fleet, with over 600 new engine deliveries expected.
Related Articles
USAF weighs up concerns and contenders for B-52H engine replacement
B-52H re-engining costs rise by 9%
USAF engine programmes tell a contrasting story
The new engines will extend the life of the B-52 aircraft for 30 years and are so durable they are expected to remain on wing for the remainder of the aircraft life.
In April 2022 Boeing selected Spirit AeroSystems to supply engine pylons and nacelles for the initial phase of the B-52 engine upgrade. Spirit already makes the nacelle for the commercial variant of the engine.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Dassault considers boosting Indian presence to support future Rafale production]()
Dassault considers boosting Indian presence to support future Rafale production
Discussion of any new production line in India would reportedly be for the F5 jet, although India is also closing in on cementing a deal for 26 Rafale-M aircraft for its Navy.
-
![Australian Army aviation veers heavily towards the US]()
Australian Army aviation veers heavily towards the US
Sikorsky’s UH-60M Black Hawk and Boeing’s AH-46 Apache will soon form the bedrock of the Australian Army’s rotorcraft capabilities, as the army awaits further delivery of both types.
-
![Anduril to supply loitering munitions to Ukraine with UK funding]()
Anduril to supply loitering munitions to Ukraine with UK funding
Since July 2024, the UK Government has provided more than £5.26 billion in support to Ukraine, including £3 billion in annual military aid and a £2.26 billion loan for defence spending. The latest deal will see Anduril supply Altius-600M and Altius-700M loitering munitions.
