The RTM322 Shared A Speed Record With X3

June 12, 2013
Rolls-Royce Turbomeca joint-venture announces that the RTM322 engine has contributed to aviation history in achieving a speed record of 255 knots during level flight, on the Eurocopter twin-engine X3 hybrid helicopter.

Following the Eurocopter publication, the Rolls-Royce Turbomeca joint-venture is pleased to announce that the RTM322 engine has contributed to aviation history in achieving a speed record of 255 knots during level flight, on the Eurocopter twin-engine X3 hybrid helicopter.

The RTM322, a state-of-the-art design & architecture engine family, combines power and
growth potential.

The RTM322 01/9a variant powering the X3, is based on the RTM322 01/9 variant powering the NH90 Helicopter and provides a 6% power increase. It develops a maximum power (all engines in operation) of 2,541 shp (ISA/ SL condition) and incorporates a FADEC adapted to the requirements of the X3 demonstrator.

This new record is a further demonstration of the RTM322 engine’s superior adaptability and flexibility for new platforms and challenges.

Background

The longstanding cooperation between Rolls-Royce and Turbomeca (Safran) began in May 1965, with the agreement between the British and French governments to build the Jaguar fighter/trainer aircraft. In November 1965, the partnership was selected to supply the Adour engine for the Jaguar aircraft.

Rolls-Royce Turbomeca (RRTM) formally came into existence in May 1966, when a Cooperation
Agreement was signed between the parent companies and RRTM Ltd. was founded one month later.

The RTM322 turboshaft engine powers the three-engine AgustaWestland EH101Merlin military helicopter, and two twin-engine military helicopters, the NH Industries NH90 and the AgustaWestland Apache. The RTM322 has been selected for approximately 60 per cent of EH101 current fleet, and over 90 per cent of the NH90 fleet.

In April 2013, Safran announced that it entered into a definitive agreement for the
purchase of the Rolls-Royce share of the joint RTM322 helicopter engine programme.