Rolls-Royce selected to complete advent research demonstrator program

Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, Inc. has achieved a major milestone in the Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology (ADVENT) demonstrator program, and was selected by the U.S. Air Force to proceed with Phase II development. Next steps for this key USAF technology program will include the integration of a variety of advanced technologies, component testing and development of a technology demonstrator core and engine.

This authorization to proceed follows successful completion earlier this year of a series of tests and analysis on a technology demonstrator core and adaptive engine. Designed to provide significant improvement in average fuel consumption, this core and engine will be available for future U.S. military aerospace platforms, including medium or large unmanned air systems.

Phil Burkholder, Chief Operating Officer, Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, Inc., added: “We are delighted to continue to support the shared vision of creating an ADVENT family of next generation engines that deliver the range and persistence required for 21st century aircraft, including unmanned air systems. The relationship with the AFRL is one of our most long standing, and we look forward to continuing our partnership on the ADVENT program that will deliver a step-change in aerospace propulsion technology.”

The ADVENT technology demonstrator program, undertaken by Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, Inc. (LibertyWorks), is funded by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). ADVENT is part of the Versatile Affordable Advanced Turbine Engines (VAATE) Program, an initiative sponsored by industry and Government partners to advance state of the art turbine engine technology for military and commercial aviation.

Air Force Launches ADVENT Technology Demonstrator Phase

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The Air Force Research Laboratory has completed its assessment of the two ADVENT, adaptive versatile engine technology, Phase I efforts and found both companies worthy of proceeding to Phase II.

This finding follows an intensive two-year effort of design, analysis and component risk reduction activities by General Electric located in Evendale, Ohio and Rolls-Royce North American Technologies Incorporated, also known as LibertyWorks, located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Based on available funding constraints, AFRL has notified LibertyWorks to continue their technology demonstrator engine development and testing and has notified General Electric to continue with their technology demonstrator core development and testing along with selected critical component risk reduction activities.

According to AFRL Commander, Major General Curt Bedke, "We have two unique technology approaches that will each bear fruit in the future. The potential capability benefits of ADVENT to the Air Force's next generation aircraft and the rigorous selection process brought out the best of both companies, making the decision especially challenging."

ADVENT is a flagship effort under the Versatile, Affordable Advanced Turbine Engines Program, or VAATE. Managed by AFRL's Propulsion Directorate, VAATE is a national program aimed at advancing the state of the art in turbine engine technology.

Source 

• RollsRoyce

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