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:

Rolls-Royce has begun outdoor testing of its F130 engine, which the U.S. Air Force selected to replace the existing powerplants across the B-52 bomber fleet.
This engine replacement program is designed to extend the B-52's operational life by an additional 30 years, potentially keeping the aircraft in service past its 100th anniversary.
The new F130 engines are expected to significantly improve the B-52 fleet's efficiency, resulting in higher fuel efficiency, reduced air refueling requirements, and lower maintenance costs.
Rolls-Royce anticipates delivering over 600 F130 engines, conducting tests in the B-52's unique dual-pod arrangement to assess factors like crosswind aerodynamic flow.

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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.

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.

Key Takeaways:

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