Rolls-Royce Selected For Advanced Technology Research Program For US Military

Indianapolis, IN - Rolls-Royce has been selected to develop technology for the ADVENT program, the next-generation propulsion system for the US Air Force. The work will be carried out at the Group's LibertyWorks research unit at Indianapolis, IN.

The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) announced the agreement, which is valued at up to $296M over two phases of the program.

ADVENT (Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology) is a technology demonstrator program funded by AFRL and focused on variable cycle features for future US Military aerospace platforms. The goal is to enable a high-thrust capability and a separate loiter operation with reduced fuel consumption.

LibertyWorks, known officially as Rolls-Royce North American Technologies Inc., has a long history of innovative service to the US military. It has contributed technology to the F-35 Lightning II LiftFan and F136 engine; the IHPTET (Integrated High Performance Turbine Engine Technology) program; and the RATTLRS supersonic missile.

Phil Burkholder, Chief Operating Officer for LibertyWorks, said: "We are extremely pleased to be working with the Air Force Research Laboratory in developing a new generation of propulsion technology. It's an exciting time in aviation history. Working together with the AFRL, we will deliver some lasting changes that will dramatically reduce fuel consumption."

Dennis Jarvi, President Defense North America for Rolls-Royce, said: "LibertyWorks is a demonstrated leader in advanced technology propulsion programs for the US Department of Defense. This selection reflects the confidence our customer has in the capability of Rolls-Royce to meet the future propulsion system needs of the US Air Force."

SOURCE: The US Air Force Research Laboratory