Rolls-Royce-Led GCAP Fighter Jet Engine Passes 100-Component Test Milestone

Published Jul 23, 12:10 PM UTC

Rolls-Royce, Japan's IHI Corporation, and Italy's Avio Aero have completed more than 100 subscale component tests for the engine intended to power the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) sixth-generation fighter. The July 20 program update indicates the partners are moving toward final approval of the engine demonstrator design. The subscale tests reduce technical risk before the integrated ground demonstrator is assembled and operated, which remains the harder milestone. The UK Ministry of Defence separately awarded BAE Systems a £708 million contract extension for sovereign technologies. Canada joined GCAP as an observer at the Farnborough Airshow. The propulsion system must provide thrust while supplying large electrical power and managing heat from advanced sensors and weapons. Britain, Italy, and Japan target 2035 for the aircraft to enter service.