Rolls-Royce has finalized altitude and operability testing for the F130 engine destined to power the US Air Force’s upgraded B-52J Stratofortress fleet. Conducted at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tennessee, testing validated performance during sustained high-altitude missions and simulated turbulent airflow conditions. The engine also completed Integrated Drive Generator trials with Boeing to confirm stable onboard power generation. The F130 will replace aging TF33 engines that have powered the bomber for more than 60 years. With testing complete, the program will advance to integration and dual-pod trials ahead of production at Rolls-Royce’s Indianapolis facility, where investments exceeding $1.5 billion have strengthened manufacturing capacity.
