COMMON ENGINE PROGRAM (CEP)

In order for the Army’s Black Hawk and Apache helicopters to remain operationally effective well into the 21st century, a larger, more efficient engine is needed. In addition, dwindling budgets have focussed considerable attention to reducing the sustainment cost associated with aging military aircraft. The objective of this paper is to show how the development of a Common Engine provides a superior solution to meet these growing demands for helicopter performance capability and reduced operational and support (O&S) cost. This paper will compare the performance benefits of developing a Common Engine versus a derivative engine. The paper will also discuss how the CEP will provide reduced logistical burden in terms of reduced O&S costs and reduced logistical footprint. Also, the Common Engine Program strategy is discussed in general, providing program status and a development schedule relative to current aircraft modernization plans.