Microturbo is well known as the manufacturer of the TRI-60 jet engine that powers the Scalp/Apache/Storm Shadow family of cruise missiles. After manufacturing thousands of this light, expendable jet engine, Microturbo is now gearing up for the future, and is showcasing several newer products and concepts on its stand at the Paris Air Show.

For example, Microturbo is currently working on the TRI-40, already selected to power the Exocet Block 3 and NSM antiship missiles. This jet engine should make its first flight in 2008. Both the Saphir 100 auxiliary power unit and the 334 air starter should also be picking up speed in the coming months; the former is for the NH90 tactical transport helicopter, while the latter will equip the TP400 turboprop engine for the A400M military transport. Both of these products are capitalizing on the commercial success of these two landmark European aircraft.

For Microturbo, however, the revolution could well lie in the world of civil aviation. “We are aiming to carve out a spot in the civil sector,” says Sales Manager Jean-Baptiste Jarin. “Our first application is the 337 air starter, selected for the SaM146 that will power the RRJ regional jet. We leveraged SAFRAN group synergies on this product.”

The TP400 starting system, which offers commonality with the system on the SaM146, just made its first ground run about ten days prior to the start of the show.