The Swedish Armed Forces are investing £15.5M (SEK 200 million) to renovate and expand the engine test facility at GKN Aerospace in Trollhättan so it can support the development and maintenance of the Gripen fighter jet’s RM12 and RM16.
GKN Aerospace currently develops and maintains the RM12 engine, which is used in the Gripen C/D while also building the same capability for the RM16, which will power the Gripen E/F. Both engines are derivatives of GE’s F414 engine, which powers the F-18 Super Hornet.
The engine test facility in Trollhättan can replicate the same conditions that an engine is exposed to when flying at supersonic speeds. The investment means technical support and maintenance for all versions of the Gripen aero-engines will be available in Trollhättan, Sweden for the long-term.
GKN Aerospace is also the OEM and type certificate holder of the JAS 39 Gripen C/D RM12 aero-engine and has been supporting the RM12 aero-engines since the first JAS 39 Gripen aircraft went into service in 1997.
GKN Aerospace has manufactured, maintained and developed the fighter aircraft engines for the Swedish Air Force since the 1930s. The company employs 2000 people in Trollhättan, Sweden, of which about 250 work in its military engines design and support business.
Stefan Oscarsson, vice president of government and space programs said, “This investment secures our ability to support the Armed Forces for the long term. It enhances our offer for both current and future aircraft engine systems and we are extremely proud of our role in the Gripen platform”
