Air and Space Institute Receives Gifted Sentry E-3D CFM56-2A Engine from the Ministry of Defence

The Air and Space Institute (ASI) is thrilled to announce a valuable addition to its workshop that will benefit future generations of pilots, engineers, and ground crew. The Ministry of Defence has gifted the Sentry E-3D CFM56-2A engine to the ASI, which will be repurposed - as a learning opportunity for students.  

The engine was transported from RAF Waddington to the interim facility at Newark College, where ASI courses are currently delivered until the new build is erected. The engine will serve as a practical tool for students to understand the components of an engine and to enhance the curriculum. Through such partnerships, ASI can deliver distinctive training and prepare students for the demands of the aviation industry. 

The Sentry E-3D CFM56-2A engine has a rich history and origins in military aviation. The high-bypass turbofan engine was designed for the Boeing E-3 Sentry - an airborne early warning and control aircraft used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF). 

The E-3 Sentry is one of the most sophisticated aircraft ever built - it is an impressive technology that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It is a testament to the engineering expertise of the military and the aviation industry. Access to such technologies will fuel the aspiration of students. 

Wg Cdr John Neville, Officer Commanding Air Wing Engineering, said, "It has been a pleasure working with the Air and Space Institute to secure the transfer of an aircraft engine that will enable students to develop practical, hands-on skills in support of their learning journeys.   

“The gifting of the engine, which was surplus to requirements following the recent disposal of Sentry AEW Mk 1, shows RAF Waddington and the AirISTAR team within DE&S Defence Equipment and Support’s commitment to STEM initiatives and we are very proud to be able to support ASI and your investment in the Engineers of the future.” 

Councillor David Lloyd, Co-Chair of Newark Town Board and Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: "I’m delighted that Newark Town Board, supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council, were successful in its bid for £25m as part of the Government’s Towns Fund initiative. 

"The Air and Space Institute (ASI) is one of the many projects in Newark the initiative is funding and todays exciting addition will play a huge part in training local people to become the next generation of pilots, engineers, and ground crew. 

“Those studying at the ASI will get hands-on involvement with real-life equipment, providing the most up-to-date training experience." 

Ross Tarnowski, Head of Learning and Skills for Engineering and Technology said: "It is great news that ASI are being gifted a CFM56 engine through our partnership with the RAF.   

“This specialist equipment will allow our students to explore and maintain a high-bypass turbofan engine which is used for both commercial and military applications."  

The CFM High Bypass engine is the same type used on many civil and military applications, will ensure ASI students are work-ready and receive world-class training. 

Paul Routledge, Aerospace Engineering Lecturer said, "Having this engine will enable the learners to gain valuable experience in both the theory of engine principals and physically being able to apply this to enhance their learning experience." 

Alex Vickery, a Level 3 Aerospace Engineering student, said: “We have just finished our engine turbine module, which I am really enjoying.  

“The Sentry engine is an excellent training aid that enhances our theoretical learning. Through it, we get a better understanding of Newton's third laws and the Breighton cycle, which are crucial to understanding how an engine operates.  

“We can now, through application, see the MagChips and the accessory gearbox which is useful for our course” 

The Air and Space Institute continues to take bold steps towards transforming Newark into a hub for aviation training, attracting students from all over the world. With the engine, students will be able to develop practical, hands-on skills in support of their learning journeys. It is a critical investment in the future of aviation and the students who will shape it. 

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