German Facility Will Be Tasked With Developing Technologies That Lower Weight, Cost, Fuel Consumption

Rolls-Royce has revealed plans to develop key aero-engine technologies at its Dahlewitz site in Germany. This follows the ground-breaking in March of a new test-bed for power gearboxes, which will support the development of the next generation of aero-engine designs.

Research in Dahlewitz will create technologies delivering lower weight, lower cost, lower fuel consumption and higher performance engines. These technologies can be applied across future small and medium-size engines as well as larger engines in the wide-body market. As part of this, Dahlewitz will become the Rolls-Royce global Centre of Competence for power gearbox capability, performing research and technology development for power gearboxes and related components.

To deliver this program, Rolls-Royce will seek to fill around 200 specialist engineering positions in Germany over the next 18 months, who will work in close collaboration with the global engineering community of the company.

The plans represent a substantial investment amounting to several hundred million euros. They are a part of Rolls-Royce’s consistent global technology strategy, will involve local industry partners and support provided by the relevant governments.

“We are pleased to see Rolls-Royce invest in future technologies in Germany," said Sigmar Gabriel, Vice Chancellor and Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, during his visit to the Rolls-Royce booth at the International Berlin Air Show, ILA. "This will further strengthen the competitiveness of our aerospace industry. And it will create excellent job opportunities, especially for young engineers.”

“The decision to invest in Dahlewitz represents an important milestone in our creation of global capability in the development of the next generation of aero engines," said Tony Wood, Rolls-Royce, President Aerospace. "We have a long track record of excellent engineering in Germany and look forward to these new technologies delivering better power for our customers.”

FMI: www.rolls-royce.com