Rolls-Royce participating in army competition

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – Rolls-Royce Corp. in Indianapolis is working with Texas-based aerospace manufacturer Bell Textron Inc. to provide the propulsion system for Team Valor’s V-280 Valor aircraft. The company says the system will be used for the aircraft’s new design as it advances in the competition for the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft Program.

Rolls-Royce says it will also provide an infrared suppressor system that delivers greater range and enhanced “survivability” to the Army. The design and development work for the propulsion system will be completed at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis.

“Rolls-Royce is excited to be a part of the Bell V-280 Team Valor to compete in the U.S. Army FLRAA program. Rolls-Royce brings a wealth of tilt-rotor and infrared suppressor experience to Team Valor, as well as over 50 years of successful collaboration with Bell,” said Adam Riddle, Rolls-Royce Defense executive vice president of business development and future programs.

Rolls-Royce says the next phase of the program features competitive demonstration and risk reduction.

Bell Textron’s Vice President and Program Director for FLRAA Ryan Ehinger said, “We are excited to work with Rolls-Royce to deliver a propulsion system that integrates game-changing performance with lifecycle affordability from the start to help our customers achieve their goals. Bell and Team Valor members are applying our collective vertical flight expertise to create aircraft capable of delivering a transformational capability to soldiers.”

Rolls-Royce says the contract comes as it completes a more than $600 million investment in modernization and technology programs in the Hoosier State, including advanced manufacturing investments at its Indianapolis facilities.