1 July 2020: Swedish Armed Forces have renewed the Performance Based Logistics (PBL) multi-year contract with GKN Aerospace for the comprehensive support of RM12 engine for approximately USD 440 million. The RM12 engine powers the JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter. As per the contract GKN not only has to ensure the engine availability for every Swedish Air Force mission as well as for Gripen C/D export customers: the Czech Republic, Hungary and Thailand but also support day-to-day operations of JAS 39 Gripen C/D users. This includes providing technical product support, comprehensive maintenance, repair and overhaul including repair development and spare parts supply.
Stressing the importance of engine availability and operational safety Joakim Andersson, President GKN Aerospace Engines said, “GKN Aerospace closely monitors every aspect of product life cycle cost effectiveness. With the recognition and award from the customer GKN Aerospace will continue to do its best in keeping this engine’s excellent track record, ensuring it is one of the best single engine installations in the world. The company understands the importance of keeping the engine system in active service for many years to come.”
The RM12 engine is a modification of GE F404 engine which includes additional features like single engine safety criteria, higher performance and greater durability. Thus the RM12 provides more operational effectiveness with favourable life-cycle cost. It has so far powered the JAS 39 Gripen throughout the approximately 310,000 flight hours. GKN Aerospace holds the military type certificate (MTC) for the RM12 engine.
In January this year, FMV selected GKN Aerospace to be the product support and MRO provider for the RM16, the engine for Gripen E, with the aim to utilize synergies between the RM12 and the RM16 as much as possible.
