GE Aerospace completes Air Force adaptive cycle engine DDR

GE Aerospace has completed the Detailed Design Review (DDR) for its XA102 adaptive cycle engine, a critical milestone in support of the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program. With the DDR now complete, GE Aerospace has been awarded the next contract phase to procure, assemble, and test an XA102 full-scale demonstrator engine.

The XA102 is the first engine in GE Aerospace’s history to be developed using model-based systems engineering (MBSE), representing a transformative shift in how advanced propulsion systems are designed and tested. The design review was presented to the U.S. Air Force, showcasing the comprehensive digital engine model and validating its readiness for the next phase 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.”

Adaptive cycle engines are critical to ensure U.S. combat aircraft maintain their superiority by providing up to 30% greater range and significantly more thermal management capability compared to today’s most advanced combat engine.

The NGAP Program is advancing technologies and manufacturing capabilities crucial for air superiority in the highly contested combat environments of the future. These technologies will enable next generation fighter aircraft with improved range, survivability, and thermal management capabilities for advanced weapons and sensors. GE Aerospace’s leadership in adaptive cycle technology builds on more than 100 years of innovation and partnership with the U.S. military. The XA100 engine completed multiple successful rounds of testing, maturing adaptive engine technologies. The XA102 engine represents the next evolution of propulsion, delivering enhanced capability while maintaining a focus on affordability and sustainability.