BAVENO, ITALY - GE's CF34-8C engine development program is on schedule to meet its next major milestones, the testing of the first core engine and first full engine.

The CF34-8C core engine, which will complete assembly in December of this year, is comprised of three major components: a 10-stage compressor based on GE's F414 engine design for the U.S.Navy's Super Hornet fighter; a machined ring combustor derived from GE's large commercial, military, and current CF34 engine designs; and a two-stage high-pressure turbine virtually identical to the design in current CF34 engine models powering Canadair's Challenger corporate jets and 50-passenger Regional Jets. Prior to core engine testing, core components will have accumulated approximately 350 individual development test hours. Initial core engine testing will be conducted to evaluate high-pressure turbine stress, aerodynamic performance, operating temperatures, and engine starting.

The second major -8C engine test will be of the first full-scale engine, which will also complete assembly in December. The first phase of full engine testing will be conducted to validate operation of the engine as a system. Performance, operability, control system operation, engine dynamics, and emissions will be evaluated. Fifteen full engines will be tested over the course of the -8C development program.

More than 4200 hours of core and full engine testing are planned.

The CF34-8C has been selected for Bombardier's new 70-passenger Canadair Regional Jet Series 700 airliner. Certification of the CF34-8C engine by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is targeted for the fourth quarter of 1999.