SINGAPORE - The development of the F110-GE-132 engine, the highest-thrust fighter engine for the Lockheed Martin F-16C/D, is progressing successfully through a series of ground tests leading to flight testing in late 2002.
The F110 growth engine is derived from the highly successful F110-GE-100 and F110-GE-129 engines powering the majority of F-16C/Ds worldwide. The F110-GE-132 will produce up to 32,500 pounds (144 kN) of thrust. However, if the engine is operated at a maximum thrust of 29,000 (129 kN), which is the thrust rating for F110-GE-129 engines powering Block 50 F-16s, the life of the -132 will be increased by 50 percent, compared to the life of the -129.
The F110-GE-132 development program is on schedule to meet the flight clearance requirements for the 2002 flight test plan. The engine completed performance baseline testing in early 2001. Altitude testing at the U.S. Air Force Arnold Engineering Development Center in Tullahoma, Tennessee, was completed in May 2001. Endurance testing began in mid-2001 and is scheduled for completion in September of this year.
The F110-GE-132 takes advantage of GE Aircraft Engines' extensive technology base, including: a long-chord-blisk fan derived from the F118 engine (B-2 bomber) and F414 engine (F/A-18E/F fighter), a radial afterburner derived from the JSF-F136 engine (Joint Strike Fighter) and F414 engine, and a composite outer fan duct based on the F404/F414 engines.
The higher-thrust F110-GE-132 was launched in 2000 with its selection for 80 F-16 Block 60 aircraft by the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) Air Force and Air Defense. After flight testing in 2002 and 2003, the first production engines will be delivered in 2003 to support aircraft delivery in 2004.
The -132 will greatly enhance the F110 engine family, which continues to expand its global presence. Recently, the Air Force of Chile selected the F110-GE-129 to power its new fleet of F-16C/D aircraft. In addition to Chile and the U.A.E., the F110 engine family has been selected to power F-16s for the United States Air Force, Bahrain, Egypt, Greece, Israel, and Turkey, as well as Japan's F-2 fighter.
GE Aircraft Engines, a division of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is the world's leading manufacturer of jet engines for civil and military aircraft, including engines produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of Snecma of France and GE. GEAE also manufactures gas turbines, derived from its highly successful jet engine programs, for marine and industrial applications. In addition, GEAE provides comprehensive maintenance support, through its GE Engine Services operation, for GE and non-GE jet engines in service throughout the world. Visit GEAE online at www.geae.com.