Honeywell announced on Nov 15, that the U.S. Army has finalized a contract to continue to purchase Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines and fielding kits, valued at approximately $79 million, for Chinook helicopters.

“The 714A engine significantly increases power for the Chinooks, enabling it to operate more efficiently in the high altitudes and hot environment of Afghanistan,” said Paul Vidano, Vice President of Militaries and Operators, Honeywell Aerospace. “Safety is a priority for both Honeywell and the U.S. Army, and the highly reliable 714A allows for safe movement of troops and equipment.”

More than 5,300 T55 engines have been delivered since its launch, with more than seven million hours of global operation. The T55 has evolved as helicopter needs have changed, and the 714A delivers a 17 percent increase in power, 5 percent reduction in fuel consumption and increased maintenance intervals, providing more effective power at lower costs as compared to the previous 712-model engine.

Honeywell’s engines are being installed on both legacy CH-47D and new CH-47F helicopters. Deliveries to the Boeing CH-47F production line from this latest order will begin in the first quarter of 2010. The U.S. Army has options for two additional years.