Designed in 1946 by a team led by Lionel Haworth, the Dart engine was derived using experience gained from the earlier more powerful Rolls-Royce Clyde turboprop.

Consequently, under normal operating conditions, the power delivered to the propeller could not be modulated at a fixed prop speed.

[2] The Dart was initially rated at 890 shp and first flew in October 1947 mounted to the nose of a converted Avro Lancaster.

Later Darts were rated up to 3,245 shp and remained in production until 1987, with approximately 7,100 produced, flying some 170 million hours.

Some versions of the engine were fitted with water methanol injection, which boosted power in hot and high altitude conditions.