Proven CTS800 engine receives FAA type certificate for T129 helicopter

July 31, 2012 – The CTS800-4A engine powering the T129 attack helicopter has received a type certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, expanding the CTS800 product line.

The CTS800 is designed and produced by the Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC), a 50:50 partnership between Rolls-Royce and Honeywell.

The new type certificate for the CTS800-4A brings a high-speed output variant to complement the FAA- and EASA-certified CTS800-4N. The 4A version powers the T129, Turkish light attack helicopter for the ATAK program.

The CTS800, which is under evaluation for several key military platforms in the Asia-Pacific region, has surpassed 100,000 in-service flight hours and demonstrated proven technology and reliable performance in a variety of demanding operational environments. LHTEC, as well as

Rolls-Royce and Honeywell, are highly experienced in both development and production integration programs for both civil and military rotorcraft programs.

LHTEC has received firm orders for more than 500 CTS800 engines for a number of aircraft families. The engine is easily supportable and maintainable in the field and the CTS800 program continues to gain momentum and is primed for significant growth in the future.

The CTS800 provides power in a range of military aircraft comprising several versions of the AgustaWestland Lynx family of helicopters including the newest AW159 Wildcat, the ATAK Team T129 attack helicopter, and the Japanese ShinMaywa US-2 amphibious aircraft.

Additionally, the CTS800 has been demonstrated in a variety of platforms, including the Sikorsky X-2 Technology Demonstrator to an unofficial world speed record.

Looking forward, the AW159 and T129 fleets are poised to enter service in 2012.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President – Helicopters and LHTEC board member, said: “This key milestone provides even more evidence that the proven CTS800 engine is the experienced, technology leader in its power range. The CTS800 has demonstrated exceptional

operational performance, providing reliable power, improved fuel efficiency, and excellent hot and high performance required for a variety of applications.”

Matt Thraen, Director of Technical Sales for Honeywell Aerospace business and LHTEC board member, said, “Fleet managers and helicopter owners are always looking for ways to reduce operational costs and one of the best ways to do this is by installing more cost-effective

propulsion systems. The CTS800 weighs the same as other engines in its class, but lowers the fuel burn rate by 25 percent and increases power by 35 percent. These benefits, coupled with the CTS800’s on-condition maintenance concept, allow customers to experience real cost savings in addition to increased capability.”

The CTS800 is triple certified, including by the US Army for military use, the FAA and EASA.