Description

The T800 engine and its civil derivatives (CTS800/CTP800) feature modular design with dual shafts, two-stage centrifugal compressor, annular combustor, two-stage HP and two-stage power turbine. Turboshaft models are equipped with an inlet particle separator module. Some versions (including the CTP800) are also equipped with a speed reduction gearbox. All models are controlled by advanced FADEC (full authority digital engine control) (Mil-Std 1553 or ARNIC 429 bus) systems.

The next-generation T800 turboshaft/turboprop family has been developed by the Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC), a 50:50 partnership between Rolls-Royce and Honeywell. Setting a new benchmark in engine performance and reliability, the T800 was originally developed to power the US Army's Boeing Sikorsky RAH-66 Comanche stealth helicopter.

Military qualification and civil certification of the baseline T800-LHT-800 was completed in 1993. A 17 per cent growth version, designated T800-LHT-801, has since been developed, first flown in the Comanche in June 2001. A further 7 per cent 'throttle push' upgrade has resulted in the T800-LHT-802 engine, delivering 1,608shp.

The T800 has generated a large number of potential applications during its development, with flight testing undertaken on the Eurocopter AS.365, Vought HH-65, Bell UH-1H and HAL ALH. The commercial CTS800 has also been selected as the boundary layer compressor drive for the ShinMaywa US-2 amphibious search and rescue aircraft upgrade. A T800-powered version of the Agusta A129 attack helicopter first flew in 1988, this engine being offered for both new A129 sales and fleet upgrades.

The CTS800 also powers the next generation of AgustaWestland Super Lynx aircraft, having first flown in the Lynx in 1991. The CTS800-powered Super Lynx has already attracted four new operators, with the engine also being offered as an upgrade for existing Lynx fleets.