Pratt & Whitney Canada is preparing a counter-punch to GE Aviation's incursion into the 800-1,600shp (600-1,200kW) turboprop engine market that its PT6A has dominated for more than 50 years - with a new product to be revealed next year. GE has been pushing into the segment since its acquisition of the Czech Walter M601 turboprop in 2008, which it adapted into the H80 series with electronic engine controls and other updates. Now, GE aims to leap ahead of the PT6 by developing a clean-sheet engine for Textron's next-generation turboprop (see above). Speaking to Flight International, P&WC president John Saabas said: "We know where the industry is going and where the trends are, so we're investing as well."
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