Gas Turbine Engine Development Partnerships

The development of gas turbine engines can benefit from the synergistic aspects gained by-partnership agreements. Development cost and risk are minimized by careful selection and application of modern technology. These conclusions are verified by examining the structure and progress of the following three major aircraft gas turbine development programs:

• The T406-AD-400 turboshaft for the V-22 Osprey
• The T800-LHT-800 turboshaft engine for LHX
• The Model 578 propfan propulsion system for transport aircraft

All of these programs contain partnership agreements that allow extensive development participation and all rely on a blend of developed hardware with infusion of modern technology. Each engine will provide a very competitive performance in its respective power class. The development progress within each program can be characterized as trouble-free and unburdened by technically-caused delay.

The trend toward competitive procurement for propulsion systems can be used to advantage if addressed by a positive program structure that encourages participation by major partners during full-scale engine development.