Rolls-Royce, Schweizer Aircraft Explore RR300 Future

ORLANDO , Fla., March 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Rolls-Royce, the world-leading provider of power systems and services, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Schweizer Aircraft to discuss future applications of the new RR300 engine family.

The RR300 turbine 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 family delivers Rolls-Royce turbine power in lower shp ranges.

FAA type certification for the RR300 is expected by 2008, with production engines to follow.

Rolls-Royce is the world-leading producer of light turbine helicopter engines. Nearly 30,000 Model 250 series engines have been produced, with approximately 16,000 remaining in service worldwide in a range of aircraft types. Rolls-Royce delivers more than 300 of the venerable Model 250 annually.

Schweizer Aircraft produces several models powered by the Model 250,including the civil 333, the unmanned MQ-8B Fire Scout, and the RU-38 Turboprop.

Rolls-Royce and Schweizer will determine how the new RR300 engine family can be engineered into the company's existing and future helicopter models.

The RR300 family embodies new technology and advanced design methodology. The engine draws on the proven record of other Rolls-Royce turbine engines to deliver a reliable, fuel-efficient engine at a competitive price.

Key attributes of the RR300 family 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.

Scott Crislip , President Helicopters & Small Gas Turbine Engines for Rolls-Royce, said, "Schweizer has been an important Rolls-Royce customer for years. Discussing new applications for our RR300 engine family represents another step forward in this important relationship. The new Rolls-Royce RR300 engine is a technologically advanced, powerful, cost-efficient and affordable engine. We already have firm orders for hundreds of engines and are excited about future opportunities with Schweizer."

NOTE TO EDITORS 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, defense 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.

SOURCE Rolls-Royce