RTX Developing 1MW Generator for AFRL

RTX is aiming to deliver hardware to the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and test the generators to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 in 2024 using The Grid, an advanced electric power systems lab By Joseph Macey / 21 Jun 2023

Discover Leading Defense Technology Solutions

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Follow DA

Raytheon Technologies (RTX) is developing a 1 megawatt electric generator for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) as part of its Advanced Turbine Technologies for the Affordable Mission-Capability program.

According to RTX, the low-spool generator could have multiple applications for future manned and unmanned military platforms.

With the addition of advanced mission systems, avionics and high-energy weapons, the next generation of military aircraft will require more onboard electric power than ever before. In the future, this 1MW generator, developed by the company’s Collins Aerospace business, could be used to power such systems safely and efficiently.   

Applied another way, the generator could be paired with a fuel-burning engine in a hybrid-electric propulsion architecture. In this way, the generator could help increase fuel efficiency to maximize aircraft range, minimize aerial refueling needs and reduce carbon emissions.

The company aims to deliver hardware to the AFRL and test the generator to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 in 2024 using The Grid, its advanced electric power systems lab scheduled to open later this year in Rockford, Illinois. RTX’s Pratt & Whitney business is supporting the 1MW generator program by studying future engine integration opportunities.

“While future military aircraft continue to take shape, one thing we know is that these platforms will require electric power in the megawatt range,” said Henry Brooks, President, Power & Controls for Collins Aerospace. “To that end, we’re working with the AFRL to design a generator that will give our customers the onboard power they need and the flexibility to tailor its use for multiple potential applications.”

According to RTX, the AFRL 1MW generator complements the MW-class motors Collins Aerospace is developing for its hybrid-electric demonstrator programs, including the hybrid-electric flight demonstrator, led by Pratt & Whitney Canada, and the SWITCH project, supported by the European Union’s Clean Aviation initiative.

Taken together, the solutions are said to support the company’s overall strategy for delivering advanced electric power systems for the next generation of military and commercial aircraft.

Posted by Joseph Macey Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Quadratix: Unified Software Ecosystem from General Atomics

Quadratix, a General Atomics vertically integrated software enterprise, aims to deliver agile, interoperable solutions that bridge air, land, sea, cyber, and space operations

Apr 17, 2025
Ophir® FoldIR Lens Enhances Long-Range Imaging for Defense & Security Operations

The new Ophir® FoldIR 25-275mm MWIR zoom lens delivers compact, long-range imaging with low-SWaP performance for drones and small gimbal platforms

Apr 17, 2025
Rugged Power Conversion Devices for Military & Defense Applications

Defense Advancement showcases RIPEnergy's field-proven power conversion products for military and defense applications

Apr 17, 2025
Forcys: Advancing Seabed Warfare with Integrated Payloads, Detection Tools & Secure Communications

Forcys outlines strategies for countering underwater threats, combining sensor payloads, communications tools, and autonomous systems with defense and commercial applications

Apr 17, 2025
Advancing EMP/HEMP Filter Technology for Modern EMI Threats

Spectrum Control highlights key advancements in EMP/HEMP filters designed to protect critical systems from EMI and electronic warfare in its white papers

Apr 16, 2025
24th Annual Future Artillery Conference Registration Details

The Indirect Fires community gathers for the 24th Defence iQ Future Artillery Conference backed by NATO and the British Army

Apr 16, 2025

Featured Content

Ophir® FoldIR Lens Enhances Long-Range Imaging for Defense & Security Operations

The new Ophir® FoldIR 25-275mm MWIR zoom lens delivers compact, long-range imaging with low-SWaP performance for drones and small gimbal platforms

Apr 17, 2025
Textron Systems to Support Software & Payload Development for Navy’s MCM USV

Textron Systems is set to support the software development and payload integration for the Navy’s Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), focusing on future mission capabilities and advanced system integration

Apr 14, 2025
Triad RF Systems Supplies Bi-Directional Amplifiers to Boost Naval Communications

Taiwan has received dual-channel bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) from Triad RF Systems, strengthening real-time data transmission and ISR functionality in unmanned naval platforms

Apr 11, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.