Rolls-Royce Wins $28.2M Contract

Rolls-Royce has won a contract worth approximately $28.2 million to provide propeller shaftlines and other equipment for the first six Royal Navy Type 45 destroyers. Technology derived from commercial marine applications helped Rolls-Royce win the naval marine contract. The company was selected, under competitive tender, by the BAE SYSTEMS Type 45 Prime Contract Office to provide a system of two propeller shaftlines per ship with steering gear and stabilisers. Deliveries for the first ship will be completed in 2004. Rolls-Royce and Northrop Grumman are already contracted to provide 12 WR-21 gas turbines for the first six Type 45s. Saul Lanyado, Rolls-Royce President -- Marine, said: ``The latest contract marks the first time Rolls-Royce has responsibility for the shaftline on a Royal Navy project, increasing our role in the ship's power train. It reflects our ability to move our competence in technology from one part of the business to another to help provide a wide range of services and become a partner for entire propulsion system needs. ``This is also an example of technology flow. The propeller was developed within our commercial business, but will now be part of a naval power solution.'' The company will provide adjustable bolted propellers for the Type 45s, featuring blades which can be replaced underwater without drydocking. Slotted holes on the hub also allow the blade pitch angle to be adjusted by up to three degrees -- retaining propeller efficiency over the vessel's life as hull resistance changes.