Aerospace engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce has selected Roke as a key technology partner on the REINSTATE project.

The project is led by Rolls-Royce and supported by the ATI Programme, a joint UK Government and industry investment.

REINSTATE seeks to fast-track future aerospace servicing capabilities that will help respond to technology, capability and supply chain challenges. Work on it has already started.

Several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and UK universities are also backing the project.

It is being delivered through collaboration between the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and Innovate UK.

The project will work on 20 technologies, including snake robots to access complex parts, engine sensors for better prediction on engine maintenance.

They also include the development of inspection and analysis tools, as well as repairing and advanced automated repair technologies.

Engineers at Roke will focus on developing smart algorithms. These tools will leverage data from engine installed inspection sensors.

Following analysis, quick in-service diagnostics will be offered.

Rolls-Royce technology repair and service chief Dr Ian Mitchell said: “Our latest engines are quieter and cleaner than ever before, substantially reducing CO2 emissions.

“This programme will take that one step further by improving how we service our engines, creating technologies which will reduce waste, avoid emissions and minimise disruption while laying the foundations to service the gas turbine and hybrid-electric engines of the future.”

Earlier last month, Rolls-Royce revealed plans to raise up to £5bn to bolster its balance sheet.