Rolls-Royce delivers first T56 series 3.5 upgrade kits to US Air Force for C-130H fleet

Rolls-Royce has delivered the first T56 Series 3.5 engine upgrade kits to the US Air Force as the service introduces the improvements to its C-130H transport fleet. The Series 3.5 engine upgrade kits are already demonstrating success in a Hurricane Hunter WP-3D aircraft of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with fuel savings exceeding 12% and improved range and payload capability. NOAA flight data also shows significantly lower turbine temperatures, improved high-altitude performance and much faster engine starts. USAF and US Air National Guard C-130Hs will begin receiving the T56 engine upgrades, starting with Air National Guard units in Wyoming and New York State. The Air Force has awarded a US$36m contract to launch the Series 3.5 upgrades into the fleet. The Series 3.5 upgrade, which was designed and funded by Rolls-Royce, allows T56 engines to operate at greatly reduced temperatures, extending parts life and improving reliability by 22%. The upgrades also provide improved “hot and high” performance. The Series 3.5 package can be installed on T56 engines on either C-130 or P-3 legacy aircraft.