Rolls-Royce Begins Testing New Engines for B-52 Bomber Fleet

The upgrade is expected to add another 30 years to the Cold War icon’s career.

Thursday, March 02, 2023 at 01:14 PM ET

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Rolls-Royce began testing engines slated for installation in the U.S. Air Force's fleet of B-52 bombers. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The Boeing B-52 bomber is undergoing an engine replacement program with Rolls-Royce F130 engines to extend its service life, potentially past 100 years.
Rolls-Royce has begun outdoor testing of the F130 engine at NASA Stennis Space Center, focusing on its dual-pod arrangement and digital controls.
The U.S. Air Force selected the F130 to replace the entire B-52 fleet's powerplants, with over 600 engines expected, promising higher fuel efficiency, reduced refueling, and lower maintenance costs for the next 30 years.

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The venerable Boeing B-52 bomber is receiving a new lease on life that could keep it in the air beyond its 100th birthday.

Rolls-Royce said it began outdoor testing of its F130 engine at the NASA Stennis Space Center in Hancock County, Mississippi. The U.S. Air Force chose the F130 to replace the existing powerplants across the B-52 fleet. The company said it expects to deliver more than 600 engines under the replacement program.