API Now Exclusive CTS800 Spare Parts Distributor

The Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC), a 50-50 joint venture between Honeywell and Rolls-Royce, has signed a ten-year agreement with Aerospace Products International, Inc. (API), naming API as the exclusive distributor of CTS800 spare parts globally.

Ken Roberts, President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter business and LHTEC board member, said: "As the CTS800 helicopter engine program continues to grow, it is critical that we provide our customers with a 24/7 aftermarket parts and services solution wherever they operate in the world. I am pleased to be building upon the relationship we have established with API, who have proven they are able to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers."

API currently provides all aftermarket supply chain management functions on behalf of LHTEC, including demand forecasting, spare parts inventory planning, warehousing, distribution, ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance administration, and repairs and warranty administration.  The exclusive distributor agreement extends the term for ten more years and broadens API's role into areas like customer credit and receivables management.

"API is pleased to expand and extend our partnership with LHTEC, Rolls-Royce and Honeywell," said Dr. Ahmed Metwalli, President and Chief Operating Officer of API. "Since our supply chain program's inception in October 2007, API has established a successful track-record of exceeding all of LHTEC's customer service Key Performance Metrics. We are proud that Rolls-Royce, Honeywell and LHTEC have recognized the value API brings to the CTS800 support program by awarding us this exclusive multi-year contract. We look forward to growing our long-term partnership in support of CTS800 customers."

CTS800 Helicopter Engine

The CTS800 engine has been selected and produced for the AgustaWestland Super Lynx 300, AW159 Wildcat and Mk. 9A helicopter programs. The CTS800 also provides the boundary layer control system for the ShinMaywa US-2 amphibian aircraft, currently in production and in service with the Japanese Navy. It is the engine for the Sikorsky X2 high-speed technology development rotorcraft that made its maiden flight in August 2008 and was selected as the powerplant for the AgustaWestland T129 Turkish ATAK helicopter program that marked its successful first flight last month.

The CTS800 has been certified by both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the European Aviation Safety Agency.

FMI: www.rolls-royce.com, www.honeywell.com, www.apiworldwide.com