The T700 engine evolved directly from Army experience in the Vietnam War's difficult operating conditions that created helicopter engine maintenance problems. GE won the 1971 power plant competition for the proposed Utility Tactical Transport System (UTTAS) helicopter, with specifications for a high performance, low fuel consumption, reduced maintenance, and combat damage resistant engine. This is one of the experimental engines used in the UTTAS rotorcraft competition in 1974.
Modular construction allowed major engine assemblies to be replaced in the field within minutes. New compressor and intake design reduced maintenance and foreign object damage. A self-contained oil system and suction fuel system made the engine less vulnerable to combat damage.
Among military T700 powered helicopters were the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk and SH-60 Seahawk, McDonnell Douglas AH-64 Apache, and Bell AH-1W SuperCobra. Commercial applications included the Bell 214ST and Sikorsky S-70C. The CT7 turboprop version powered such commuter aircraft as the Saab 340 and CASA/IPTN CN-235.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Circa 1974
United States of America
PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)
General Electric Aircraft Engines
Type: Turboshaft
Power Rating: 1,167 kW (1,565 shp)
Compressor: 5-stage axial, single-stage centrifugal
Combustor: Annular
Turbine: 2-stage axial gas generator turbine, 2-stage axial power turbine
Weight: 192 kg (423 lb)
Length 118.1 cm (46.5 in.), Diameter 63.5 cm (25 in.)
Aluminum, Steel, Stainless steel, Plastic, Rubber, Paint, Inconel
A19860224000
Transferred from the U.S. Army
National Air and Space Museum
Open Access (CCO)
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