DENVER — The U.S. Army’s next-generation helicopter engine, the Improved Turbine Engine Program engine developed by General Electric’s aerospace division, is projected to power a UH-60M Black Hawk early next year. It has experienced delays but is expected to provide a 50% power increase and reduce energy usage and carbon emissions by 25%, along with lowering life-cycle costs.
The T901 engine will replace the T700 and first be used on the Black Hawk, followed by the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. The Army remains committed to the ITEP engine, but plans for procurement and fielding have been pushed back, with no specific timeline yet established.
ITEP engines are expected to arrive at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach, Florida, test center this summer, with plans for fitting them into Black Hawk aircraft for ground runs and flight tests.
The Army plans to deliver two ITEP engines to Sikorsky in late May or June, aiming to have the aircraft flying about six months after the engine’s arrival. Phillips predicted that getting in the air will likely occur next year.
Overall, the ITEP engine is progressing despite previous delays, with plans in place for initial testing and integration into Black Hawk helicopters.
