The Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), a joint venture between US-based aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney and a group led by Saudi Arabian Airlines, has opened its new aircraft-engine maintenance unit in Riyadh.

A leading provider of military engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services in the Middle East region, MEPC is also supported by Mohawearean Aviation Services and MTU Aero Engines, the leading engine manufacturer in Germany.

The new 194,000 sq ft facility is strategically located near the King Khalid International Airport, in the Saudi capital.

It was inaugurated by Saudi Deputy Defence Minister Prince Khaled bin Sultan in the presence of senior officials of Saudi Armed Forces and Pratt & Whitney.

Bennett Croswell, president, Pratt & Whitney Military Engines was present at the launch along with Rick Silva, the director of business development, operational programs, Cliff Stone, the ex-chairman of MEPC board, Fred Nader, United Technologies international operations regional director and Samir Haddad, the program manager.

MEPC has been the overhaul provider of choice for the Royal Saudi Air Force's F100-PW-220/220E engines since it opened in 2001.

The facility's current product lines also include the RB199 engines for RSAF's Tornado aircraft, the T56 engines for the C-130 and Pratt & Whitney Canada's PT6 for the PC-9 Pilatus.

'Pratt & Whitney's tradition of supporting the Royal Saudi Air Force is carried on through our sustained efforts with the Middle East Propulsion Company,' remarked Croswell.

According to him, the growth plans include expanding the facility's portfolio to include engines for military helicopters, tanks and others vehicles.

MEPC, he said, was part of a larger network of Pratt & Whitney military MRO solutions, offering a broad range of rapid, reliable, and affordable services.

'We are proud to be a founding member of MEPC, and are pleased to continue this partnership and excited about the growth opportunities enabled by the opening of this impressive facility,' said Croswell.

'Saudi Arabia is an important market for Pratt & Whitney and this new facility is part of our commitment to the Kingdom to create training opportunities and additional local engine repair and overhaul capabilities,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service