GE Aerospace has tested a new type of hypersonic ramjet engine that it says could be used to enable high-speed flight across several different types of aircraft.
The dual-mode ramjet engine uses a remote detonating combustion (RDC) design that the test program has shown delivers a threefold increase in airflow compared to previously flight-tested hypersonic technology demonstrators.
The dual-mode ramjet began ground testing in March in GE Aerospace’s clean air, continuous flow, high-speed propulsion testing facility at Evendale, Ohio. The company added that the results of the engine test program exceeded performance expectations and that the design demonstrated robust operation.
The 11-month development and test program involved engineers from Innoveering – a company acquired by GE Aerospace in 2022 that specializes in hypersonic propulsion on the test and development program.
GE Aerospace successfully ran the engine for the first time in December 2023.
An RDC engine uses detonation waves to generate higher levels of thrust in smaller and lighter engines and enable increased fuel efficiency.
It is hoped that the new RDC dual-mode ramjet will increase the efficiency and therefore the range of hypersonic aircraft and missiles, which fly at speeds of more than Mach 5 (4,000mph). Most dual-mode ramjet propulsion systems only begin working above supersonic speeds greater than Mach 3, when airflow is sufficient, while the RDC design works at lower Mach numbers.
Amy Gowder, president and CEO of defense and systems at GE Aerospace said, “The rapid progression from design to testing underscores our commitment to driving innovation in hypersonic technologies.”
Mark Rettig, vice president and general manager of Edison Works Business and Technology Development at GE Aerospace said, “The technology’s robust performance paves the way for the next phase of development, which will focus on continued testing and technology demonstration in alignment with our roadmap for integrated high-speed propulsion solutions.”
