Aircraft Engine Component Improvement Program

The Aircraft Engine Component Improvement Program (CIP) focuses on enhancing the performance and safety of aircraft engine components. Its primary objectives include developing, testing, and qualifying improvements to address service-revealed deficiencies. This aims to improve flight safety and readiness while reducing operating and support costs. The program also supports the Army's Critical Safety Item (CSI) initiative by providing necessary test vehicles for testing and qualification efforts. Additionally, CIP addresses safety and readiness issues related to Auxiliary Power Units (APU) and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

The United States Army Futures Command (AFC) and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM), Aviation & Missile Center (AvMC) at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, are responsible for executing this program. A significant aspect involves providing in-house engineering support for UAV engine component improvement efforts. This includes contracting support to ensure engineering expertise is available to address ongoing challenges in UAV engine performance.

One key initiative within CIP is the UAS Fuel System Component Evaluation program. This initiative aims to enhance aircraft readiness and reliability by investigating common component failures in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The focus is on identifying root causes of performance anomalies during aircraft operation, particularly in critical components such as Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADECs), fuel injectors, and high-pressure fuel pumps. These investigations support airworthiness, reliability, and performance improvements.

The acquisition strategy for implementing improved designs involves Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), followed by procurement or modification to production contracts to introduce enhanced hardware. This approach ensures that advancements made through research and development are effectively transitioned into operational systems, contributing to the goals of improving safety, readiness, and cost-efficiency in Army aviation operations.