France’s Safran Helicopter Engines said it has established a joint venture with German manufacturer MTU Aero Engines to develop an engine for the next generation of European military helicopters.
Called European Military Rotorcraft Engine Alliance, or EURA, the joint venture will operate from France and will be managed by a CEO to be selected from MTU.
Under a collaborative agreement finalized by the two sides in Berlin, the new company will design and produce a future aircraft engine with increased efficiency and reduced operating and maintenance costs.
The envisioned engine will power the European Next Generation Rotorcraft, which is scheduled to enter service in 2040 and boast greater range, higher speed and enhanced maneuverability, Safran said.
According to Safran CEO Cedric Goubet, the joint venture will develop new technologies such as hybrid-electric propulsion and high-temperature materials for future helicopter projects.
“EURA is a guarantee of sovereignty for the future military helicopters that Europe and European nations will need,” he said in a statement.
Safran and MTU have another joint venture working with Spanish aerospace propulsion company ITP Aero to deliver an advanced engine for the Future Combat Air System, a European platform being developed by Dassault Aviation, Airbus and Indra Sistemas.
