Rolls-Royce has successfully fixed its long-standing engine durability problems, with Rolls-Royce now reporting a 40% surge in underlying profits to £3.5 billion for 2025. The British manufacturer, once described as a burning platform by CEO Tufan Erginbilgiç, has turned its fortunes around after years of turbine blade cracking and disputes with airline customers. Now the company faces its next big challenge: capitalizing on new opportunities in defense spending and AI datacenter power generation.
From Engine Fixes to Record Profits
The overhaul shop in Derby, where engines are stripped and repaired after two years of service, was once a hotspot for costly maintenance. But after addressing Trent engine durability issues, Rolls-Royce has seen its share price rise tenfold to over £13. Underlying profits soared, and the company is now poised for growth beyond aviation.
Key Drivers of the Turnaround
- Resolution of turbine blade cracking and other engine problems
- Increased orders from defense spending post-Ukraine invasion
- Boom in demand for generators powering AI datacenters
- Recovery in global air travel after the Covid pandemic
Comparison: Rolls-Royce Performance Before and After Fixes
| Metric | Pre-Fix (2022) | Post-Fix (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying Profit | £2.5 billion | £3.5 billion |
| Share Price | ~£1.30 | ~£13.00 |
| Engine Reliability | Frequent repairs | Improved durability |
Next Big Challenge: Diversifying Beyond Engines
With engine problems behind it, Rolls-Royce is now targeting new markets. The company is re-entering the energy sector, particularly AI datacenter power, where demand for reliable generators is surging. Additionally, the UK government’s defense spending plan, announced by Keir Starmer, provides a tailwind for Rolls-Royce’s military engine business. The global aviation industry, gathering at the Farnborough airshow, will watch closely as Rolls-Royce navigates this next phase.
Future Opportunities
Rolls-Royce is also exploring small modular reactors (SMRs) for clean energy, leveraging its nuclear expertise. The company’s ability to innovate beyond aircraft engines will be critical to sustaining its growth trajectory. Investors remain optimistic, with the stock continuing to rally.
FAQ
What were Rolls-Royce’s engine problems?
Rolls-Royce faced persistent durability issues with its Trent engines, including cracking in turbine blades, which led to frequent overhauls and disputes with airline customers.
How did Rolls-Royce fix its engine issues?
The company implemented engineering improvements in its Derby overhaul shop, including better materials and repair processes, which resolved the cracking and improved engine reliability.
What is Rolls-Royce’s next big challenge?
After fixing its engines, Rolls-Royce is focusing on new growth areas, including generators for AI datacenters, defense contracts, and potential entry into small modular nuclear reactors.