GE Aerospace will supply CT7-2E1 engines for 23 Leonardo AW149 helicopters selected for the UK Ministry of Defence’s New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme.
The contract includes spare engines, spare parts, long-term support services and technical support. The CT7-2E1 already powers most AW149 and AW189 helicopters in service, with more than 300 engines delivered and over 500,000 flight hours accumulated worldwide.
According to GE Aerospace, the engine offers lower weight, reduced fuel consumption and lower maintenance costs than other engines in its power class. Its modular design also enables individual engine modules to be serviced in the field, reducing the need for depot-level maintenance.
Under the programme, GE Aerospace will also support Leonardo in delivering economic, social and environmental commitments under the UK’s Social Value Model. Activities will include building, maintaining and overhauling CT7-2E1 engines at StandardAero’s Gosport facility, while Barnes Aerospace’s Newton Abbot site will manufacture engine components for the NMH programme and future export opportunities.
GE Aerospace will also leverage its UK facilities in Cheltenham, Cardiff, Prestwick and Gloucester to support apprenticeship schemes, educational outreach, skills development and sustainability initiatives.
