Rolls-Royce RB.401-07 Turbofan Engine for Business Aircraft in the 1980's

It has become increasingly clear that a new engine in the 5000 lb (22.44 kN) to 6000 lb (26.69 kN) thrust class is required for the 1980's to power the developing and prospective medium sized business jets. Greater range with higher rates of climb and cruising speeds will all become achievable by applying existing current big engine technology to the small engine in a simpler form.

The paper describes an engine designed to meet these future needs. The choice of cycle is discussed, the mechanical design described and a resume is given of the development programme in which four engines have now been used.