Rolls-Royce and UK MoD sign MoU for MT30 and WR-21 engine support

Rolls-Royce and the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on delivering improved ongoing equipment support.

The collaborative agreement covers the Rolls-Royce MT30 and WR-21 engines deployed across key Royal Navy programmes.

The parties have committed to jointly work in delivering the engine support currently being provided, as well as figure out how the work will be carried out.

Further details of the agreement have not been disclosed.

The MT30 engines power the Queen Elizabeth Class (QEC) Aircraft Carriers of the Royal Navy.

The Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine alternators can propel the aircraft carriers at speeds in excess of 25k.

In 2015, Rolls-Royce successfully carried out light-off of the MT30 gas turbines on the UK Royal Navy’s new aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, in the Rosyth Dockyard in Scotland.

The first of two Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbines were also installed on the Royal Navy’s second Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales.

The WR-21 engines are installed on the Type 45 destroyers of the Royal Navy.

Rolls-Royce Defence Business Development and Future Programmes Director Alex Zino said: “The signature of this collaborative agreement has been as a result of a close working relationship between Rolls-Royce and the UK MOD.

“Adopting a more streamlined approach to our ways of working will not only deliver significant strategic benefits, but also demonstrates our commitment to providing the best equipment and support for our armed forces customer.”