U.S. Air Force contracts Rolls-Royce

INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory has announced a $296 million contract with Rolls-Royce for lower fuel propulsion systems.

The contract is for Rolls-Royce to develop technology for the USAF next-generation propulsion system.

Company officials say work on the ADVENT program (Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology) will be done at the Rolls-Royce North American Technologies Group’s research unit in Indianapolis.

The agreement valued at up to $296 million is over two phases of the ADVENT program.

Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, known in industry circles as LibertyWorks, has formerly contributed technology to the F-35 Lightning II LiftFan and F136 engine and other high-profile military projects.

“LibertyWorks is a demonstrated leader in advanced technology propulsion programs for the U.S. Department of Defense," said Dennis Jarvi, president of defense North America for Rolls-Royce, in a statement.

"This selection reflects the confidence our customer has in the capability of Rolls-Royce to meet the future propulsion system needs of the U.S. Air Force.”

The goal of ADVENT is to enable a high-thrust capability and a separate loiter operation with reduced fuel consumption. The technology demonstrator program is funded by AFRL and focused on variable cycle features for future U.S. military aerospace platforms.

“We are extremely pleased to be working with the Air Force Research Laboratory in developing a new generation of propulsion technology," said Phil Burkholder, chief operating officer for LibertyWorks, in a statement. "It’s an exciting time in aviation history. Working together with the AFRL, we will deliver some lasting changes that will dramatically reduce fuel consumption.”