Orbital Corporation Ltd (‘Orbital UAV’) has announced a new engine development and supply agreement with Textron subsidiary, Lycoming Engines, to supply engines to US defence prime contractor Textron Systems.
The new agreement commences with a 12-month engine development program, which will enable the integration of an Orbital UAV-designed core engine, including proprietary fuel and engine control systems, into Textron Systems’ Aerosonde program.
Based on the success of the engine development program, the Agreement transitions to the supply of engines for up to 10 years, including the provision of engines, spare parts and support services.
Delivery of production engines under the agreement will be mid-2022 at the earliest.
“We are delighted to announce this major new collaboration with Lycoming and to be working with Textron Systems on a joint development program,” Todd Alder, CEO and Managing Director of Orbital UAV, said. “This relationship further enhances our status within the global UAV defence industry and provides the opportunity to increase our market share and deliver on our strategic growth objectives."
Wayne Prender, Senior Vice President, Air Systems at Textron Systems, also welcomed the announcement.
“For more than four decades, Textron Systems has been designing, manufacturing, operating and supporting some of the world’s most reliable and trusted multi-mission unmanned aircraft, including the Aerosonde and Shadow systems.
“Orbital UAV’s heavy fuel technology and design expertise coupled with Lycoming Engines’ World Class reputation further supports Textron Systems’ industry-leading UAV mission readiness rates and reputation for reliability and durability."