Pratt & Whitney, a division of RTX, has announced the establishment of its European Technology and Innovation Center (ETIC) in Houten, Netherlands. The new center will focus on pioneering advanced propulsion and alternative fuel technologies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions in future aircraft.
Co-located with RTX’s Collins Aerospace European Innovation Hub, the ETIC will leverage the Dutch and broader European aerospace ecosystem, promoting collaborations across industry, academia, and government organizations.
“Our European Technology and Innovation Center will harness the extraordinary engineering expertise available in the Netherlands and across Europe,” said Frank Preli, vice president of technology at Pratt & Whitney. “The center’s innovators will develop cutting-edge technologies to achieve greater propulsion efficiency and lower emissions in aircraft using both conventional and alternative fuels, including hydrogen.”
The launch of the ETIC aligns with RTX’s ongoing efforts to deepen its engagement in the Dutch aerospace sector. The company recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Netherlands Aerospace Group to advance research in commercial aviation technology. Additionally, a master research agreement with Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) will enable close collaboration on multiple projects, involving graduate students and academic staff.
Tjerk Opmeer, deputy director-general for business and innovation at the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “The establishment of Pratt & Whitney’s European Technology and Innovation Center underscores our shared vision for accelerating sustainable aviation through innovation and international collaboration. We look forward to supporting this transformative endeavor.”
Scheduled to open in mid-2025, the ETIC will initially employ a core team of engineers and scientists, with plans for expansion based on program needs. RTX employs approximately 22,000 people across 60 locations in Europe, including over 6,000 Pratt & Whitney employees, predominantly in Poland. In the Netherlands, Collins Aerospace operates three sites employing 270 people, including its Houten facility.
About RTX
RTX employs over 185,000 people globally, driving advancements in aviation, defense, and technology solutions. With 2023 sales of $69 billion, the company is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and is home to leading brands Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon.