Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, has completed a detailed design review of the Next-Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) aircraft engine for the U.S. Air Force. This is an important milestone in the development of a new adaptive propulsion system that will provide American aviation with an advantage in future conflicts, writes Defense Blog.
The design review was conducted entirely in a digital environment, allowing experts to immediately access all necessary data. This approach significantly accelerates the transition to component manufacturing and assembly of the XA103 prototype, which is scheduled to undergo ground testing in the second half of the 2020s.
The NGAP engine features an adaptive architecture that allows its components to change configuration in real time to optimize fuel consumption, improve thermal management, and increase survivability in combat conditions. This makes it significantly more efficient than fourth- and fifth-generation powerplants.
The NGAP program is part of the U.S. Air Force’s broader effort to modernize its air force to meet new challenges. Adaptive thrust technology is expected to increase the range, maneuverability, and combat flexibility of next-generation fighter aircraft, which will be critical in future conflicts.
This project strengthens Pratt & Whitney's position as a leader in military aviation. The company has already begun component production and preparation for further testing that will be key to the development of US combat aircraft in the coming decades.
Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, has completed a detailed design review of the Next-Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) aircraft engine for the U.S. Air Force. This is an important milestone in the development of a new adaptive propulsion system that will provide American aviation with an advantage in future conflicts, writes Defense Blog.
The design review was conducted entirely in a digital environment, allowing experts to immediately access all necessary data. This approach significantly accelerates the transition to component manufacturing and assembly of the XA103 prototype, which is scheduled to undergo ground testing in the second half of the 2020s.
The NGAP engine features an adaptive architecture that allows its components to change configuration in real time to optimize fuel consumption, improve thermal management, and increase survivability in combat conditions. This makes it significantly more efficient than fourth- and fifth-generation powerplants.
The NGAP program is part of the U.S. Air Force’s broader effort to modernize its air force to meet new challenges. Adaptive thrust technology is expected to increase the range, maneuverability, and combat flexibility of next-generation fighter aircraft, which will be critical in future conflicts.
This project strengthens Pratt & Whitney's position as a leader in military aviation. The company has already begun component production and preparation for further testing that will be key to the development of US combat aircraft in the coming decades.