Rolls-Royce yesterday received EASA certification for its 16,000-pound-thrust BR725 engine. Similar approval from the FAA is expected soon. The launch platform for the new powerplant is the Gulfstream G650, which is scheduled to fly by year-end. “The BR725 development program has progressed extremely quickly and efficiently with a clear focus on technology and delivering key milestones. Test results have been outstanding and confirm all of our expectations,” said Rolls-Royce Deutschland director of engineering Dr. Norbert Arndt. “We are now looking forward to first flight and the flight-test program.” Since first engine run in April last year, the BR725 has completed all major development testing in the course of almost 1,100 running hours and 3,500 engine cycles, according to Rolls-Royce. During development testing, the engine successfully operated at sea-level and altitude conditions, as well as passing birdstrike, ice, hail, water ingestion and fan-blade containment tests. Rolls-Royce notes that the BR725 is the company’s sixth new civil engine development program to come out on time and on budget in as many years. BR725 serial production is planned to start next year, and the G650 is scheduled to enter service in 2012.