Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, today announced a development agreement with GippsAERO, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra Aerospace.

Under the agreement, Rolls-Royce will supply M250-B17F/2 turboprop engines for the GA10, a new 10-passenger fixed-wing plane that will deliver enhanced performance, fuel efficiency and reliability.

Rolls-Royce will work with GippsAERO to obtain certification for the GA10, which is currently in the prototype design phase. Certification is due to begin in March 2012 and entry into service scheduled for 2013. GippsAERO predicts that sales could reach 20 aircraft per year, in India, Europe and Asia.

Patricia O'Connell, Rolls-Royce, President – Defence Customer Business, said: "The M250-B17, with its excellent pedigree, is the compelling solution for an aircraft in this class,and we look forward to working with GippsAERO on their family of aircraft which feature industry-leading Rolls-Royce technology. The M250 is a proven performer with an excellent record and over 210 million flying hours."

Dr. Terry Miles, CEO of GippsAERO, added: "We are extremely pleased to partner with Rolls-Royce in the development of a new 10-seat turboprop utility aircraft. The development of the GA10 TP will add a new dimension to the GippsAERO product range and with the Rolls-Royce M250-B17 F/2 fitted, will open new market segments across the globe since the aircraft will offer lowest cost per seat in its class and best-in-class short take-off and landing capability."

The agreement, which was signed during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, also provides Rolls-Royce with the opportunity to examine the potential of using the RR500 turboprop engine, currently in development, for future applications.