PHOENIX, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Joint venture company Textron AirLand LLC has chosen Honeywell Aerospace to supply engines for its production Scorpion aircraft.

Scorpion is a new light attack and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance jet that first took flight in December of last year.

Honeywell's TFE731-40AR-3S engine powers the prototype and will now power production Scorpions.

"Selection of Honeywell's TFE731-40 engine for the Scorpion continues the strong partnership we've had with Textron for over two decades," said Mike Madsen, president, Defense and Space, Honeywell Aerospace. "Honeywell's ability to provide a proven, reliable and high-performance engine for this platform helped Textron AirLand bring this innovative aircraft to market in a shorter timeframe and cost-effective manner."

Honeywell, in announcing the contract, said the TFE731-40 engine provides lower operator expenses due to its longer inspection intervals, low parts count and low thrust specific fuel consumption.

The value of the contract and its terms were not disclosed.

Textron AirLand, LLC is a joint venture between Textron Inc. and AirLand Enterprises LLC.

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Textron AirLand picks Honeywell Aerospace engines for Scorpion