Rolls-Royce will complete the first phase of testing of F130 engines for B-52J Stratofortress nuclear bombers in 2023

Rolls-Royce has reported successful progress in the process of testing F130 engines for the B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber. If all goes according to plan, the first phase of tests will be completed in 2023.

Here's What We Know

Rolls-Royce is conducting high-speed tests at NASA's Mississippi Space Centre. The company manages to achieve its goals in the initial phase. It has collected a lot of useful information. The data obtained during the tests will help avoid problems when integrating the F130 on the B-52 Stratofortress.

It is important to note that Roll-Royce is not suffering from supply chain problems, so assembly is proceeding according to schedule. The company intends to conduct a critical evaluation of the project early next year.

Roll-Royce has also scheduled the start of flight tests of B-52 Stratofortress strategic bombers with the new engines for 2024. This phase is expected to last until 2026.

Roll-Royce will supply the US Air Force with more than 600 new F130 engines for the strategic bombers. The current version of the aircraft is called the B-52H. After modernisation, the bomber will receive a new designation - B-52J.

The new engines will extend the B-52's service life by 30 years. The aircraft appeared in the 1950s. Last April it celebrated the 70th anniversary of its first flight. The modernisation will allow the B-52 Stratofortress to remain in service until the 2050s.

Source: Rolls-Royce