CTS800 engine for the T129 is certified by the FAA
The CTS800 engine chosen for the Turkish light attack helicopter, the T129, has been certified by the FAA.
The attack helicopter, which is being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and AgustaWestland, is based on the AW129 Mangusta and uses the CTS800-4A variant of the engine.
In an announcement made on 31 July, the engine's manufacturer Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC) - a 50:50 partnership between Rolls-Royce and Honeywell – revealed that the engine was also under evaluation for several other key platforms in the Asia-Pacific region.
Other variants of the engine are already in use on the Super Lynx, the AW159 Wildcat and the Japanese ShinMaywa US-2 amphibious aircraft.
Greg Fedele, SVP of helicopters at Rolls-Royce and LHTEC board member, said: 'This key milestone provides even more evidence that the proven CTS800 engine is the experienced, technology leader in its power range. The CTS800 has demonstrated exceptional operational performance, providing reliable power, improved fuel efficiency, and excellent hot and high performance required for a variety of applications.’
Matt Thraen, director of technical sales for Honeywell and LHTEC board member, said: 'Fleet managers and helicopter owners are always looking for ways to reduce operational costs and one of the best ways to do this is by installing more cost-effective propulsion systems.
'The CTS800 weighs the same as other engines in its class, but lowers the fuel burn rate by 25% and increases power by 35%. These benefits, coupled with the CTS800’s on-condition maintenance concept, allow customers to experience real cost savings in addition to increased capability.'
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