The General Electric T58 is a compact turboshaft that helped establish turbine power in helicopters. Its development began under a US Navy contract in 1953, and two XT58-GE-2 engines powered a Sikorsky HSS-1F flight in 1957. The family later equipped Sea Kings, Sea Knights and several other helicopter types.[1][2]
A small turbine requirement
The Navy's original contract called for an engine weighing 400 lb and producing 800 shp. GE developed the T58 as its first small turbine engine, seeking a substantial power increase within a compact package. The civil CT58 became the first turbine engine to receive FAA certification for helicopter use, extending the programme beyond its naval origins.[1]
Operational applications
The engine powered the Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King, Boeing CH-46 Sea Knight and Kaman SH-2 Seasprite, as well as particular variants of other helicopters. Sea Kings used T58 power during Apollo astronaut recoveries, and the VH-3D brought the family into presidential transport. These roles ranged from antisubmarine missions and assault transport to rescue and executive flying.[2][1]
Power growth
Ratings grew from approximately 1,050 shp to 1,870 shp during the production programme. GE's anniversary history records production from 1959 to 1984, followed by continued component and support work. This increase in available shaft power was accompanied by changes to materials and reliability, allowing the family to serve evolving helicopter requirements.[2]
Reliability improvement
The T58-GE-16A upgrade for Marine Corps CH-46Es replaced the core and modified the power turbine and accessory package. GE restarted core production for the improvement programme in 2003. A titanium-nitride coating on compressor blades reduced erosion and helped extend time on wing. The programme illustrates how targeted replacement of core components could improve a helicopter fleet without changing its basic engine installation.[1][2]