Rolls-Royce, the British multinational aerospace company, has expanded its collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to accelerate research into hydrogen fuel system technology for the aviation industry.
This partnership aims to further develop hydrogen as a potential zero-carbon aviation fuel of the future.
TCS, a global leader in IT services and consulting, will provide engineering expertise to support Rolls-Royce in addressing three critical challenges in the adoption of hydrogen for aviation: fuel combustion, fuel delivery, and fuel systems integration with engines.
The collaboration will focus on ensuring all elements operate safely.
Alan Newby, Director of Research and Technology at Rolls-Royce, welcomed TCS to the hydrogen research program, stating: “Their engineering skills will play a valuable role in addressing our technology goals. We’ve already made great progress, and having TCS with us gives us additional capability as we move forward on our journey to enable the energy transition for the aviation sector.”
The expanded partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between Rolls-Royce and the Tata Group, which includes engine development and supply chain commitments.
TCS has been working with Rolls-Royce since 2010 in various areas, including design, manufacturing engineering, control systems, software, and after-market services.
Anupam Singhal, President of Manufacturing at TCS, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, describing it as “an exciting one that represents a powerful alliance in the quest for sustainable aviation solutions”.
This collaboration aligns with the aviation industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, as set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
It also demonstrates TCS’s commitment to driving sustainable transformation across industries and leveraging technology for positive societal impact.
The partnership was announced at the Farnborough International Airshow, where TCS showcased its technological capabilities in the aviation industry.
TCS will leverage its deep domain knowledge of aircraft manufacturing to support Rolls-Royce’s engineering activities, including system design, component design, supply chain support, and program management.
Regu Ayyaswamy, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Internet of Things and Digital Engineering at TCS emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating: “It aligns well with TCS’ commitment to harness technology for positive societal impact and building a greener future.”
This collaboration between Rolls-Royce and TCS represents a significant step forward in the development of sustainable aviation technologies, potentially paving the way for a greener future in the aerospace sector.