CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 10, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA has selected UTC Aerospace Systems for the world's first NP2000 propeller modernization of a P-3 aircraft. The agreement provides for procurement and installation of NP2000 propellers with electronic propeller control systems and will include engineering, technical and logistics services within the next two years. UTC Aerospace Systems is a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

The NP2000 is being offered to replace the HS 54H60 propeller system for the P-3. It is designed to provide higher reliability, reduced vibration and noise to the aircraft, and reduce support costs. The U.S. Navy has already deployed the NP2000 on the E-2C Hawkeye and C-2A Greyhound, and it is currently flying on C-130 aircraft with the Air National Guard.

This milestone in the NP2000 modernization program is a critical step to gain airworthiness approval on a P-3, and supports UTC Aerospace Systems' efforts to market the NP2000 for 54H60 propeller replacements.

The P-3 is considered a core platform for the NASA Airborne Science Program. The aircraft supports scientific investigations by NASA and visiting scientists from universities, other agencies and organizations worldwide. The P-3 is also used as a technology test bed for new airborne and satellite instrumentation.

"This propeller system is ideally suited for the modernization of all P-3 aircraft which currently use the 54H60 propeller," said Michel Ferey, Propeller Systems president and general manager for UTC Aerospace Systems.

Ferey added, "This modernization is a 50 year jump in technology with benefits that include performance enhancements, quieter operations and lower operating costs."

UTC Aerospace Systems designs, manufactures and services integrated systems and components for the aerospace and defense industries. UTC Aerospace Systems supports a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and customer service facilities.

United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, provides high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries.

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NASA Selects UTC Aerospace Systems NP2000 Propellers and Electronic Propeller Control Systems for a P-3 Aircraft