The US Navy is set to revitalize its noise-suppressed aircraft cell engine testing facility located in Patuxent River, Maryland, which has been closed for over ten years. This facility is crucial for the Naval Air Systems Command’s Engine Test Instrumentation Replacement System (ETIRS), playing a key role in optimizing propulsion validations for military aircraft.
With the reactivation of this laboratory, officials anticipate establishing a “controlled, weather-independent testing environment.” This development aims to minimize scheduling risks and cut down on off-site expenses associated with testing.
The renovation is spearheaded by the Common Aviation Support Equipment Program Office (PMA-260), which is tasked with the development and acquisition of the Navy’s test and ground support equipment. Additionally, the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is involved in overseeing the engineering facilities and expertise required for this infrastructure project.
PMA-260 Program Manager Capt. Matt Wilcox emphasized the importance of the T-10 Test Cell Facility’s revitalization. “This is a crucial step in reducing cost and schedule risk for the ETIRS program,” he stated. He also noted that as outdated engine test instrumentation systems are phased out, the commitment to enhancing capabilities for Sailors and Marines remains strong, with minimal disruption to intermediate-level engine maintenance operations.
According to Navy representatives, the facility acts as a “force multiplier,” underpinning broader modernization efforts for aviation support equipment, maintenance capabilities, and fleet readiness. Wilcox further explained that by optimizing test and evaluation opportunities while ensuring efficient resource utilization, this strategic initiative directly contributes to meeting the program office’s objectives of timely, cost-effective delivery of reliable products.
