Rolls-Royce Opens New $1 Million Customer Delivery Center in US, Focusing on Engines for C-130J

June 8, 2012 defpro.com

INDIANAPOLIS | Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has opened its first Customer Delivery Center (CDC) for defense engines in the United States, initially focusing on deliveries for the Lockheed Martin C-130J military transport aircraft.

Through more than $1 million investment in production advancements including automated inspection, dry-ice blast cleaning and electronic tool control, the CDC will enhance deliveries of AE 2100 engines, as Lockheed Martin continues to grow its C-130J business in the US and globally. The aircraft is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE 2100 engines.

Patricia O’Connell, Rolls-Royce, President Customer Business, said, “Rolls-Royce continues to focus on customers and delivering improvements to exceed their expectations. Recognizing how important the C-130J business is to both Lockheed Martin and Rolls-Royce, we are pleased to introduce delivery system improvements such as the Customer Delivery Center in support of this significant program.”

John Gallo, Rolls-Royce, Executive Vice President, Business Operations, said, “The new Customer Delivery Center represents yet another investment in our manufacturing operations as we keep a laser focus on improving efficiency and maintaining our ability to compete in the marketplace. We have designed the Customer Delivery Center to include best practices and efficiencies that will benefit all AE engine production.”

George Shultz, Lockheed Martin, Vice President and General Manager, C-130 Programs, said, “The C-130J Super Hercules has developed a reputation for power and reliability. That reputation is due in large part to the Rolls-Royce engines which give the C-130J such tremendous range and speed. The AE 2100 engines also allow the aircraft to conduct a wider range of missions than any other platform.”

The CDC is located in Rolls-Royce’s primary manufacturing facility in Indianapolis, where the AE 2100 engines are assembled. The AE 2100 is part of the Rolls-Royce AE engine family, which also includes AE 1107C for the V-22 Osprey, and the AE 3007H for the Global Hawk and US Navy BAMS. All AE engines share a common core and over 80 percent commonality. In future, the CDC will include the other engines in the AE family, including corporate and regional aircraft engines produced in Indianapolis.