Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has launched the latest variant of its M250 engine – the M250-C47E. Rolls-Royce has secured a commercial launch commitment for one new and two current aircraft applications, with a customer announcement expected at Heli Expo.

The US Navy has committed as the first military customer to incorporate the M250-C47E into the Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout. Rolls-Royce has delivered a development engine to Northrop Grumman for a demonstrator aircraft for the rapid deployment capability programme.

The new M250-C47E improves efficiency and performance, using proven technology already demonstrated in the field. These include a five per cent improvement in ‘hot and high’ power and a nearly eight per cent increase in rated takeoff power to 700 shaft horsepower. Specific fuel consumption (SFC) is reduced by a typical two per cent and engine reliability is increased.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President–Helicopters, said, “The newest evolution of the M250 engine will deliver improved power and reliability with reduced fuel consumption.”

“Both commercial and military customers will benefit from these improvements as we continue to evolve the proven legacy of the M250 engine.” Rolls-Royce has delivered more than 31,000 M250 engines, with the fleet totalling over 223 million flight hours.