France-based engine manufacturer Snecma has started ground-testing the core engine demonstrator of its Silvercrest turbofan design. At the company’s Villaroche facilities near Paris, the $100 million demonstration effort is expected to pave the way for full-scale development. The 9,500- to 12,000-pound-thrust engine is targeted mainly at super-midsize to large business jets. Snecma is hoping to launch the program by the middle of the year. Engine certification is penciled in for early 2011, depending on the schedule of the applications found.