The Royal Saudi Air Force has chosen General Electric (Stand C410) to re-engine its Boeing F-15S fighters with the F110 powerplant. Deliveries of 65 of the F110-GE-129C engines are to begin in 2008. Including logistical support, the contract is valued at more than $300 million.

According to GE, this is the first time an F-15 operator has opted to re-engine the twin-engine jet by replacing the Pratt & Whitney Canada F100 powerplant. The Republic of Korea Air Force first selected the F110 for its 40-aircraft order for
F-15Ks placed in 2002. Last year, Singapore chose GE as the engine supplier for its new F-15SG fleet. The F110 family is also in service on F-16C/D warplanes, including those operated by some customers in the Middle East.

The -129C engine for the Saudi F-15s features GE’s service life extension hardware, incorporating the core from the long-serving CFM56 airliner engine, as well as three-dimensional aero technology and upgrades to both the combustor and high-pressure turbine. According to GE, these enhancements can deliver up to a 25-percent improvement in costs per flight hour, significant on-wing time increases and the elimination of special inspections.