Overview
- Rolls-Royce and U.S. Air Force teams completed altitude, operability and Integrated Drive Generator trials at AEDC in Tullahoma, using distortion screens and Boeing-supported power checks to validate performance under demanding conditions.
- USAF program manager Lt. Col. Timothy Cleaver said the campaign produced data across the full spectrum of flight conditions to support test aircraft modification and flight testing.
- The next phase moves into further system integration and renewed dual‑pod work at NASA’s Stennis Space Center to de‑risk installation on the bomber.
- The program passed Critical Design Review in late 2024, with initial flight‑test engine builds underway and deliveries expected in 2027 to support a two‑aircraft flight‑test campaign.
- Derived from the BR725, the F130 will replace legacy TF33s with fully interchangeable engines in each dual pod, with manufacturing, assembly and testing consolidated at Rolls‑Royce’s Indianapolis site as part of the broader B‑52J modernization.