Snecma is to offer the M88-3 as an alternative, more powerful engine for export versions of the Saab JAS39 Gripen, in competition with the Eurojet EJ200 and General Electric F414 power plants.
The M88-3 is a derivative of the M88, now in production for the initial batch of Dassault Rafale fighters.
The M88-3 thrust growth comes from a new low-pressure compressor now under development, and the engine will also include a new nozzle designed to reduce exhaust signature.
The first production M88 for Rafale is due for delivery at the end of 1996, and it is expected that the M88-3 will eventually power heavier versions of the Rafale.
Meanwhile, the French company is hoping that India will select the Snecma/Turbomeca Larzac-powered Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet for its New Jet Trainer requirement. Snecma is also hoping to conclude a licence-production deal with Mikoyan covering the supply of Larzac engines for the Russian manufacturer's MiG-AT jet trainer.
Snecma recently signed a co-operation agreement with Denel of South Africa and Spain's ITP covering modifications to Atar 8K50 and 9K50 military turbojets.
Source: Flight International
