New Hypersonic Flight Engine Successfully Demonstrated 

GE Aerospace has successfully developed and tested a new hypersonic dual-mode ramjet, demonstrating a threefold (3X) increase in airflow compared to previously flight-tested hypersonic technology demonstrators.

The dual-mode ramjet engine began testing in March 2024. The trials took place in the clean air, continuous flow, high-speed propulsion testing facility in Evendale, OH. The demonstrations took place just 11 months after the launch of the design effort. 

GE Aerospace assert that the testing delivered promising results, exceeding performance expectations and demonstrating robust operation of a dual-mode ramjet.

The trials aim to enable high-speed flight and longer range across numerous multi-mission aircraft, and is another milestone in a series of hypersonic programs.

The successful development and testing of the dual-mode ramjet in such a short period of time was realized through the collaboration of GE Aerospace’s team of engineers, Innoveering – a company acquired by GE Aerospace in 2022 that specializes in hypersonic propulsion – and GE Aerospace’s Research Center.

Amy Gowder, president and CEO of Defense & Systems at GE Aerospace, commented; “The rapid progression from design to testing underscores our commitment to driving innovation in hypersonic technologies. This milestone not only shows the exceptional talent and dedication of our team but also reaffirms our position as a leader in the pursuit of hypersonic flight.”

Mark Rettig, vice president & general manager of Edison Works Business & Technology Development at GE Aerospace, added; “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.”