GE Aerospace advances adaptive engine development for U.S. Air Force

By Defence Industry Europe

GE Aerospace has successfully completed the Detailed Design Review (DDR) for its XA102 adaptive cycle engine, a crucial milestone in the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) programme. This achievement marks a significant step towards delivering advanced propulsion technology for the future fleet of combat aircraft.

 

The XA102 is the first engine in GE Aerospace’s history to be developed using model-based systems engineering (MBSE), a digital approach to designing and testing propulsion systems. The review, presented to the U.S. Air Force, validated the comprehensive digital engine model and confirmed its readiness for the next stage of development.

“GE Aerospace is making great strides with model-based engineering, which has been instrumental in the success of the XA102 engine design,” said Dr. Steve “Doogie” Russell, vice president and general manager of Edison Works at GE Aerospace. “As we transition into the procurement and build phase, we will continue to incorporate this innovative approach while working closely with our supply chain partners to advance the engine toward a full-scale demonstration.”

 

 

With the DDR completed, GE Aerospace has secured the next contract phase, which involves the procurement, assembly, and testing of a full-scale XA102 demonstrator engine. Adaptive cycle engines like the XA102 are designed to enhance the capabilities of combat aircraft, offering extended range and superior thermal management compared to current advanced propulsion systems.

The NGAP programme is focused on developing technologies and manufacturing capabilities that will ensure air superiority in increasingly contested combat environments. These advancements will provide next-generation fighter aircraft with improved range, survivability, and thermal management to support advanced weaponry and sensor systems.

 

 

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