GKN Aerospace has successfully delivered the first upgraded RM12 engine to its customer, the Swedish Armed Forces, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing RM12EP (Enhanced Performance) programme. 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.
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,” said Stefan Oscarsson, Vice President Governmental Solutions at GKN Aerospace.
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. 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 is the world’s leading multi-technology tier 1 aerospace supplier, with a mission to be the most trusted and sustainable partner in the sky. As a global company serving the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, GKN Aerospace designs, manufactures and delivers an extensive range of advanced aerospace systems, components and technologies – for use in commercial and defense aircraft ranging from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles to the most advanced fighter aircraft. In line with its mission, GKN Aerospace is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. GKN Aerospace is market leading in aerostructures and engine systems, with 16,000 employees across its 36 manufacturing locations in 12 countries.
