January 23, 2008 -- Rolls-Royce, the world leader in engines for military transport aircraft, has been selected as the propulsion system provider for the Canadian Air Force's newly contracted fleet of 17 Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical lift aircraft.

Each aircraft is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 advanced turboprop engines and Rolls-Royce values the business at more than $135 million over the life of the program. Aircraft delivery is scheduled for 2010.

The Honourable Michael Fortier, Canadian Minister of Public Works and Government Services, and The Honourable Peter MacKay, Canadian Minister of National Defence, recently announced the C-130J contract award to Lockheed Martin.

The contract award further enhances the position of the Rolls-Royce AE2100 engine as one of the most popular turboprop engines in military and regional transport.

The Canadian announcement follows the recent milestone production and delivery of the 1,000(th) AE2100 engine from Rolls-Royce. The engine was presented to Lockheed Martin and awaits installation on a C-130J military transport.

Dennis Jarvi, President of Defence North America, commented: "Rolls-Royce is pleased to strengthen its position as the world leader in engines for military transport aircraft. The AE2100D3 provides the C-130J pilot with the power, flexibility and range needed so they can complete their mission, even in the most challenging conditions."

Rolls-Royce has been a long-term, dedicated supplier to the Canadian Forces with propulsion systems powering several aircraft fleets for the Canadian Air Force, including the Hawk Trainer fleet for the NATO Flight Training in Canada Program and the CP 140 Aurora P3 fleet. Together with its industrial partners, Rolls-Royce is participating in many of the Canadian Government's 'Canada First' major procurements as the Government revitalizes Canada's defence capabilities.

Source: Business Wire