Rolls-Royce R revolutions. Although not directly related to the Spitfire, the Supermarine engineers gained valuable experience of high-speed flight with the S.5 and S.6 aircraft, their next project being the Rolls-Royce Goshawk-powered Supermarine Type 224 prototype fighter aircraft. Technological advances used in the R engine, such as sodium-cooled valves and spark plugs able to operate under high boost pressures, were incorporated into the Rolls-Royce Merlin design. The author Steve Holter sums up the design of the Rolls-Royce R with these words: The Schneider Trophy was a prestigious annual prize competition for seaplanes that was first held in 1913. The 1926 race was
Rolls-Royce/SNECMA M45H The engine had a low turbine entry temperature and comparatively low rotational speed. The engine was designed to be uprated without drastic redesign. Three options were water injection (+10% thrust), improved HP turbine (+10% thrust), addition of a zero-stage to the LP compressor (+25% thrust). The engine was developed at the time of the Rolls-Royce bankruptcy which resulted in delays in developing the engine. A Rolls-Royce/SNECMA M45H engine is on display as part of the aero engine collection at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford. Rolls-Royce/SNECMA M45H The Rolls-Royce/SNECMA M45H was a medium bypass ratio turbofan produced specifically for the