HeliExpo News: Rolls-Royce Signs New Agreement with MD Helicopters

Dallas, Texas: Rolls-Royce has finalized a new agreement with MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) for the supply of Model 250 turboshaft engines, reaffirming the company's support to the helicopter manufacturer.

The Rolls-Royce Model 250 engine series powers the MD 500E, MD 520N, MD 530F and MD 600N turbine helicopters.

MD Helicopters completed a restructuring transaction last July when Patriarch Partners, LLC, a New York based financial firm with approximately $5 billion under management, acquired a controlling interest in the company. Following this change of ownership, MDHI has been focused on the provision of spare parts while working to fulfill existing orders.

Scott Crislip, President - Helicopters and Small Gas Turbine Engines for Rolls-Royce said: "This agreement represents a significant milestone in our relationship with MD Helicopters. Rolls-Royce is pleased to continue its association with the MD 500 and MD 600N series product lines, having produced powerplants for over 4,600 examples of these versatile aircraft and their predecessors. This milestone reaffirms unwavering Rolls-Royce support to all current and future MD Helicopter customers. They can be assured Rolls-Royce is committed to one of the leading brand names in the industry."

Commenting on the implementation of the new OEM agreement, MDHI Chairman Lynn Tilton, said: "The Model 250 family of engines has been part of the MD 500 and MD 600 series helicopters since the first flight of the Model 500. The reliability of the engine is well known among both military and commercial operators worldwide. Our partnership with Rolls-Royce on these engines assures our operators of dependable engines and service for many years to come."