Rolls-Royce Delivers First Production RR300

Rolls-Royce has completed assembly, test, and delivery of its first production RR300 engine, following receipt of its production certificate for the engine from the U.S. FAA. The 300-shp-class powerplant was completed at Rolls' newly-commissioned small engine assembly line in Indianapolis. It is destined for installation in the new Robinson Helicopters’ R66. “The RR300 engine program has gone from concept to reality in under two years," said Ken Roberts, acting president of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter business. The March 12 delivery "signals the start of full-rate production for the RR300; hundreds of which are on order by Robinson Helicopters over the next few years.” A prototype RR300 has been flying on a Robinson since mid-2007. In addition to orders from Robinson, Rolls has signed memos of understanding with Enstrom Helicopters, Schweizer Aircraft, and MD Helicopters to evaluate future applications of the new RR300 family. For related news