Rolls-Royce MT30 Achieves US Navy Milestone

The Rolls-Royce MT30 has achieved a major development milestone -- receiving American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) certification, a US Navy requirement for operation. The 36MW marine gas turbine is already well positioned for two US Navy programs, having been selected for the Lockheed Martin Flight 0 Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and the DD(X) multi-mission destroyer Engineering Demonstrator Model (EDM). The MT30 is also included in the baseline design for the two proposed Royal Navy aircraft carriers and is being actively considered for the French PA2 Aircraft Carrier and the Franco-Italian FREMM frigate program. Saul Lanyado, Rolls-Royce President -- Marine, said: "This is an excellent achievement, crucial to our success on two key US defense programs. We have translated leading-edge, proven, aero engine technology into a unique marine power system." Completion of 1,500 hours endurance testing at 100F (38C), proved the MT30's ability to maintain power at high ambient temperatures. In 2004 the gas turbine received DNV (Det Norske Veritas) design approval, which certified the engine at 36MW to DNV's rules for classification of High Speed, Light Craft and Naval Surface Vessels. The gas turbine has 80 percent commonality with the Trent 800 aero engine, which has won a market-leading 42 percent of the Boeing 777 program, achieving nearly seven million flying hours since entering service in 1996.