#Netherlands #RTX #Pratt & Whitney #Innovation Center #Houten

RTX's Pratt & Whitney Launches European Technology Center

In a significant step for aviation innovation, Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, has officially opened its new European Technology and Innovation Center (ETIC) in Houten, Netherlands. This facility is dedicated to spearheading research and development in advanced propulsion technologies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and performance for future commercial aircraft. The establishment of ETIC is a part of RTX's commitment to drive innovation in aviation, and it marks the company's first dedicated innovation hub in Europe.

The ETIC will serve as a collaborative space where industry experts and academic figures can work together on various high-impact technologies. Among the research focuses are advanced gas turbine systems, as well as hybrid-electric and hydrogen propulsion technologies. Michael Thacker, the Senior Vice President of Engineering and Technology at Pratt & Whitney, emphasized the center's importance, stating, "As an independent innovation center dedicated to cutting edge technology research, ETIC is a first-of-a-kind facility for Pratt & Whitney in Europe."

Located at Collins Aerospace's European Innovation Hub, the ETIC amplifies RTX's engagement with the Dutch aerospace sector. This strategic location is poised to benefit from the region's strong engineering talent and rich aerospace technology history. In addition to the ETIC's opening, Pratt & Whitney has recently entered into multiple agreements with the Netherlands Aerospace Group and signed a master research agreement with Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). These collaborations will form a framework to enhance research efforts across various aerospace technologies. The dedicated office space secured by Pratt & Whitney at TU Delft's Aerospace Innovation Hub further strengthens ties to the academic community and fosters ongoing partnerships.

Professor Henri Werij, Dean of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting that close ties with leading aerospace firms are essential for developing technologies that ensure a sustainable future for aviation. He stated, "We are thrilled to take this next step in our collaboration with Pratt & Whitney. Working directly with their new team in Houten will strengthen our partnership."

Moreover, Tjerk Opmeer, Deputy Director-General for Business and Innovation at the Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Netherlands, acknowledged the potential that the ETIC holds for accelerating innovations in sustainable aviation through collaborative efforts. He remarked, "This center can enhance our shared vision for accelerating sustainable aviation through innovation and international collaboration."

Pratt & Whitney already has a solid presence in Europe, employing over 7,000 staff across its various engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance facilities, primarily focused in Poland. RTX itself boasts 21,000 employees across 65 locations in Europe, with approximately 300 of those based in the Netherlands. This expansion through the ETIC promises to foster future growth and bolster the aerospace industry's transformation across Europe.

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney has been at the forefront of aircraft engine design, manufacturing, and service for military, commercial, and civil aviation since 1925. The company is recognized as a world leader in the aerospace industry, pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance aircraft propulsion systems.

About RTX

RTX stands as the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With a workforce of over 185,000 employees globally, RTX is committed to redefining technology and solutions that protect and connect people around the world. The company's portfolio includes prominent businesses such as Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, all working towards advancing aviation and defense technologies to tackle the most pressing challenges in the industry.