Revolutionary F130 Engine for B-52J Passes Critical Review – What’s Next?

Rolls-Royce's F130 Engine Achieves Milestone

Rolls-Royce has announced that its new F130 engine has successfully passed the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase, marking a significant step towards production and the delivery of the upgraded B-52J to the U.S. Air Force.

The CDR milestone is the result of over two years of detailed design work and collaboration among Rolls-Royce, the Air Force, and Boeing. The engine testing program is set to commence altitude testing in February 2025 at the U.S. Air Force Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

During the CDR, final designs were validated through analyses, simulations, and test results, ensuring that the project remains on track to meet performance goals while adhering to budget and timeline constraints.

Candice Bineyard, Director of Early Life Cycle & Naval Programs, expressed pride in achieving the F130 CDR milestone on time, emphasizing the rigorous collaboration with partners.

Earlier this year, Rolls-Royce completed the initial phases of F130 sea-level tests in Indianapolis, where the engines will be manufactured and tested. The Rapid Twin Pod Tests at NASA Stennis Space Center were crucial in confirming the integration of the F130 engines onto the B-52J, helping to mitigate risks and ensure test objectives are met.

The F130 engine during testing at NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi (Rolls-Royce)

The RR F130 engines were selected in 2021 to replace the outdated Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines used since the 1960s. The B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program began in 2018, with Rolls-Royce winning the contract for the military version of the BR725 engine.

The Air Force aims to finalize integration activities and deliver the first modified B-52 aircraft by 2026-2027, with operational capability expected by 2030. The new engines promise to increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and lower maintenance costs, remaining on the B-52 through at least 2050.

In addition to the engines, the B-52J will feature upgrades including a modified radar system, a streamlined profile, and advanced cockpit displays, enhancing its operational capabilities for the future.