Safran Helicopter Engines has announced the first ground run of the Arriel 2L2 engine at its Bordes, France, facility, which took place at the beginning of June. The Arriel family was selected in 2016 to power the new Korean civil and military helicopters, known as the LCH (Light Civil Helicopter) and LAH (Light Armed Helicopter).
The Arriel 2L2 is co-developed by Safran Helicopter Engines and Hanwha Techwin, which will license-produce units in its Changwon plant, South Korea. Hanwha Techwin will also be responsible for the engine’s maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).
“First engine to test is an important milestone in any engine program history,” said Nicolas Billecocq, Safran Helicopter Engines vice president, light helicopter engines program. “We look forward to next steps in the development of 2L2 and the LCH/LAH.”
Developed from the Arriel 2N, the 2L2 is the most powerful Arriel variant with a take-off power rating of 1,024 shaft horsepower. The Arriel 2L2 will deliver better reliability, power and performance during demanding missions. Certification is planned for late 2020 and entry into service for 2022.
The Arriel is the best-selling helicopter engine in its class. Over the past 40 years, over 12,000 units have been produced, together logging more than 46 million flight hours. With power outputs ranging from 650 to 1,024 shp, the Arriel family now powers over 40 different helicopter types. Within its category, the Arriel is just as reliable as the CFM56.
