Rolls-Royce and Makeen have signed an Individual Licence Agreement allowing mtu Series 2000 marine engines to be manufactured and assembled in Saudi Arabia. Rolls-Royce said it is the first high-speed engine manufacturer to license local production in the Kingdom.
The agreement follows a framework licence signed in November 2023, which established the legal and commercial basis for localising mtu products. The partners will now establish initial production capability for the Series 2000, although investment, capacity, output targets and delivery dates have not been disclosed.
The locally produced engines are intended to support future marine and naval programmes, including high-speed ferries, coastguard vessels and patrol boats. The initiative also supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 policy of increasing domestic industrial participation and developing technical skills.
Proven technology
“This agreement allows us to combine proven mtu technology with local manufacturing capabilities and support the Kingdom’s ambition to build a strong domestic industrial base with advanced technology,” said Andreas Görtz, president of mobile and sustainable solutions at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
Makeen is investing in manufacturing capability to support local assembly, future customer projects and a domestic supply ecosystem around high-performance engines. Rolls-Royce has operated in Saudi Arabia since the 1960s across aerospace, marine and land-based applications.
“Our partnership with Rolls-Royce Power Systems brings world-class high-speed engine technology to the Kingdom and helps create a strong foundation for local manufacturing, skills development and future industrial growth,” said Fawaz Al-Thubaiti, chief executive of Makeen.
The companies will now focus on production readiness, workforce capability and support for prospective programmes.
