GKN Aerospace delivers upgraded RM12 engine to Swedish Armed Forces

Image courtesy GKN Aerospace

The delivery follows an earlier order from the Swedish Armed Forces valued at approximately £32 million (SEK 400 million) for performance upgrades across the Gripen C/D engine fleet.

The RM12EP upgrade includes the installation of improved turbine hardware and updated engine control software designed to increase engine thrust, extend operating time and reduce life cycle costs. All work is carried out at GKN Aerospace’s facility in Trollhättan, Sweden, where the company is responsible for the development, manufacturing, system support and maintenance of both the RM12 engine powering the Gripen C/D and the RM16 powering the new Gripen E/F.

The first delivery is the result of strong cross-functional collaboration within GKN Aerospace, across engineering, production, quality, procurement and logistics, together with key partners GE and Saab. Additional upgraded engines will be delivered continuously to the customer as planned.

Stefan Oscarsson, Vice President Governmental Solutions at GKN Aerospace, said: “This first upgraded engine delivery represents an important step forward in enhancing the performance and endurance of the Gripen system. As type certificate holder for the Gripen C/D engine and with a partnership with the Swedish Air Force that spans nearly a century, we are proud to continue supporting Sweden’s operational capability and future readiness.”

The RM12EP programme, launched in 2019 and led by GKN Aerospace, forms part of long-term efforts to ensure the Gripen C/D remains a highly capable and cost efficient fighter aircraft. The upgraded engine will form the foundation for continued operation and maintenance support, for which GKN Aerospace remains responsible.

GKN Aerospace products, systems and services are integral to 90% of today’s major aircraft. These range from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles, to uncrewed military platforms and fighter aircraft. The company’s delivery of advanced technology is evident in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems and innovative engine systems, reducing weight and cost in aircraft and engines. 

GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve more sustainable flight. Its global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight. Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across more than 30 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.6 billion and is listed under its parent company name Melrose Industries plc.