Super Lynx 300 Underway on CTS800 Power

The first demonstrator aircraft for the Westland Super Lynx 300 program has made its maiden flight with freshly-fitted LHTEC CTS800-4N turboshaft engines. This Lynx had previously been flying trial with Rolls-Royce Gem engines, but on June 12 it took to the air with its intended powerplant, and made a major step forward in the development program.

"This confirms the compatibility of the new production-standard LHTEC engines with the existing airframe and transmission system," said test pilot Ted Mustard. "The aircraft was close to normal maximum all-up weight and hovered impressively on one engine.

"The CTS800 engine delivers a great deal more power than the existing engine, and the gearbox easily absorbed the corresponding increased torque levels." The CTS800 matches the Lynx 300's increased operational demands with a newer and more powerful full authority digital electronic control (FADEC).

The CTS800 is just one element of the new and improved Super Lynx 300. The helicopter also introduces an advanced digital cockpit, supplied by Smiths Industries. The new cockpit fit incorporates eight color active matrix liquid crystal displays, divided between four main integrated display units and two small electronic power systems instrument screens.

The Lynx 300 draws on the new cockpit display technology already developed for, and in service with, the Royal Navy's Lynx HMA.8 and Merlin HM.1 helicopters.