First RTM322-powered helicopter delivered in Japan 03 March 2006The first Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 powered MCH101 helicopter was today delivered to representatives of Japan’s Defense Agency and Japan’s Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF). The ceremony took place at KHI’s factory near Gifu, Japan.
This initial MCH101, powered by three RTM322 Mk250s assembled by RRTM, will now embark on a flight test programme by the JMSDF.
Rolls-Royce Turbomeca (RRTM) has granted Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) a licence to assemble, test, repair and overhaul RTM322 engines for the JMSDF’s MCH101 helicopter programme. In addition, the aerospace division of KHI will also be assembling MCH101 aircraft in Japan. The first engine to be assembled by KHI was delivered to the JMSDF in October 2005.
Richard Thornley, Regional Executive for Rolls-Royce in Japan, said: “The on-time handover of the first RTM322-powered MCH101 marks an important milestone in this partnership between KHI and Rolls-Royce Turbomeca. This collaboration has now enabled the JMSDF to take delivery of one of the world’s most advanced helicopter engines. With KHI, we will continue to strongly support the JMSDF so that they may enjoy the full potential of this valuable asset.”
Miriam Ryan, RRTM program manager at Turbomeca, announced: "The future success of major helicopter suppliers, lies in their ability to bring together the best resources available in response to the specific needs of a customer. We are proud to be associated with all of the partners on this project, who clearly demonstrated their ability to successfully face these challenges in the interests of delivering a world class engine."
Notes to editors
Rolls-Royce expects the current minesweeping and Antarctic Support helicopters to be replaced by RTM322 powered EH101 variant helicopters
Japan is the fifth customer to choose the RTM322 for the EH101, highlighting the fact that the RTM322 is the leading powerplant for modern medium-sized helicopters, particularly those operating in a maritime environment.
Two variants of the RTM322-powered EH101 are in operation with the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, and the engine also powers the British Army’s Apache AH Mk1 helicopter. Additionally, Portugal and Denmark have chosen the RTM322 for their EH101 helicopters.
Approximately 1,500 RTM322 engines, including orders and options, have been announced for NH90, AH-64 Mk1 Apache and EH101 helicopters.
