StandardAero has secured a long-term agreement with Rolls-Royce to provide repair and overhaul support for the engine powering the US Navy’s Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) hovercraft fleet.
The MT7 engine supports the SSC, which was designed to move troops, equipment, and cargo across difficult coastal terrain.
Under the deal, work will be carried out at StandardAero’s Maryville, Tennessee facility, which will handle maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the marine gas turbine engine.
Built around shared architecture with the Rolls-Royce AE 1107C engine used on the V-22 Osprey, the MT7 benefits from common components that simplify logistics and maintenance.
StandardAero said the agreement builds on its existing role as a Rolls-Royce Authorized Maintenance Center for the AE 1107C engine since 2018. The company also supports other Rolls-Royce military engines that power a range of US military aircraft.
US’ Ship-to-Shore Connector
The SSC is the US Navy’s next-generation hovercraft designed to replace the LCAC fleet in service since the late 1980s, with a contract awarded to Textron Systems covering 73 units.
It is built with similar configurations and dimensions to the LCAC to ensure compatibility with existing well deck amphibious ships.
The craft can carry up to 74 tons (67,131 kilograms), reach speeds above 35 knots (65 kilometers/40 miles per hour), and operate with a mission radius of at least 25 nautical miles (46 kilometers/28 miles), using four gas turbine engines and a five-person crew.
In July 2024, Textron Systems secured a $39.3-million contract to provide training solutions for the SSC program.
