Honeywell is to put the T55 turboshaft engine back into production following the award of a contract potentially worth more than $1.1 billion. Meanwhile, the UK has awarded Honeywell an $80 million contract for T55 support.
The US Army has ordered T55-714s to replace -712 engines in its Boeing CH-47DChinooks. With all options exercised the deal will be worth $1.1 billion over eight years. The army operates nearly 450 CH-47s.
Mike Redenbaugh, vice president propulsion at Honeywell Engines, Systems & Services, says the upgraded engine gives "a 22% improvement in power, 7% better fuel economy and greater reliability". Improvements include full authority digital engine control, corrosion resistant materials, and longer life compressor discs.
Honeywell's five-year deal with the UK Ministry of Defence covers support of the T55-712/714 engines on Royal Air Force Chinook HC2/2A/3s. The deal includes a strategic partnership with the MoD's Defence Aviation Repair Agency, which will repair, overhaul and test the engines.
Source: Flight International
