EVENDALE, Ohio -- The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) has ordered 91 F110-GE-129C engines to re-engine 41 twin-engine Boeing F-15S aircraft. This order follows the 2007 Royal Saudi selection of 65 F110 engines to re-engine 29 F-15S aircraft.
The combined value of the two Royal Saudi orders--156 F110 engines and the logistics support package--exceeds $750 million, with engine deliveries beginning later this year.
In selecting the GE engine, the RSAF cited the F110's high performance, safety and reliability and cost-effective operation.
"We welcome the opportunity to support the Royal Saudi Air Force and its front-line fighters," said Al DiLibero General Manager, Evendale Turbofan and Turbojet Department at GE Aviation. "This selection reinforces the growing acceptance of the F-15/F110 combination among international operators."
The F110-GE-129 engine model to power the RSAF aircraft incorporates GE's Service Life Extension (SLEP) hardware, which includes highly successful 3D aero technology derived from the CFM56* commercial engine family plus upgrades to the combustor and high-pressure turbine. The enhancements can help provide up to a 25 percent improvement in cost-per-flying hour, a significant time-on-wing increase and elimination of special inspections.
For more than 20 years, GE's F110 family has been the best-selling engine on single-engine F-16C/Ds worldwide, including in the Middle East. Recently, the F110 engine has made important progress in powering the twin-engine F-15. The F110 was first selected for 40 F-15K aircraft in 2002 by the Republic of Korea Air Force, followed by Government of Singapore selections for 24 F-15SG aircraft. First flight of the Korean F-15K occurred in early 2005.
GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.
* CFM56 engines are produced by CFM international, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.