IAE International Aero Engines AG has shipped all six prototype V2500-E5 powerplants for Embraer Defense and Security's new KC-390 multi-role tanker/transport aircraft. The first three were delivered ahead of schedule earlier this year and the remaining three instrumented powerplants were shipped earlier this month.
All six engines will be used in flight tests beginning in 2014. Civil certification for the new engine model is planned for third quarter 2014.
"We are honored that V2500-E5 engines will power the KC-390 tanker program," said Dave Brantner, president, Pratt & Whitney Commercial Engines. "Our dedicated team located at Embraer's facility is working hard to support the program and the first flight."
"The delivery of the first engines for a new aircraft program is an exciting milestone," said Jackson Schneider, president and CEO, Embraer Defense and Security. "This brings us another step closer to our first flight this year. We will continue to work closely with IAE on certification and testing."
Following assembly at the Pratt & Whitney Middletown, Conn., Engine Center, the V2500-E5 engines were shipped to the UTC Aerospace Systems - Aerostructures in Foley, Ala., for installation of nacelles, thrust reversers and engine build-up equipment. Production powerplants will be delivered to support entry into service scheduled in 2016.
The V2500-E5 engine, rated at 31,330 pounds of thrust, was selected in July 2011 by Embraer Defense and Security and the Brazilian Air Force, which has established the KC-390 requirements. While Embraer and its customers desire maximum commonality with the V2500 engine, changes have been made to optimize installation with the new airframe.
Throughout its 40-year history, Embraer has been involved in all aspects of aviation. In addition to design, development, manufacturing, sales and technical support for commercial, agricultural and executive aviation, Embraer also offers integrated solutions for defense and security. It has produced more than 5,000 aircraft that operate in 80 countries on five continents, and it is the market leader for commercial jets with up to 120 seats. Embraer manufactures some of the best executive jets in operation, and is now entering a new level in the defense segment.
IAE is a multinational aero engine consortium whose shareholders are comprised of Pratt & Whitney (NYSE: UTX), Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines International GmbH, Japanese Aero Engines Corporation and MTU Aero Engines. To date, more than 6,000 V2500 engines have been delivered to close to 200 customers around the world.
