GEK800 Engine Reaches Ignition Milestone As Turbofan Programme Moves Towards Production
General electric company, GE Aerospace, has successfully ignited the GEK800 turbofan engine in a new test for a cruise missile propulsion system designed for long-range, stand-off strike missions.
The engine was tested at Kratos’ X-58 test facility. The GEK800 is jointly developed by GE Aerospace and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, with the latest ignition marking the start of a new testing campaign. The milestone marks the start of another phase of ground testing as the two companies work toward production.
The engine has recently been designated the F143 and is being developed to meet requirements for long-range, stand-off strike capabilities. Kratos and GE Aerospace say the design combines high performance with manufacturing approaches intended to keep costs down.
The latest test moves the programme into a new phase as the companies work to demonstrate the engine’s performance and durability before advancing toward production and integration with cruise missile systems.
The companies did not disclose detailed test data from the ignition event. They said the successful test begins a new testing campaign for the GEK800, with further work focused on demonstrating the engine’s performance and durability.
“The combined Kratos, GE Aerospace, and Government test team has demonstrated exceptional focus, discipline, and schedule execution. This team sets the benchmark for operational efficiency and provides a refreshing reminder that our nation can develop turbine engines affordably and at pace,” said Chris Rawlings, Vice President of Kratos’ Defense Engine Portfolio.
The GEK800 is intended for cruise missile applications where propulsion must deliver the required performance while supporting rapid and lower-cost production. Kratos and GE Aerospace are using modern engineering and manufacturing processes as part of that approach.
“With this latest milestone, the GEK800 engine continues to demonstrate strong performance and durability. Our collaboration with Kratos is delivering a highly capable propulsion system designed to meet the demanding requirements of cruise missile applications,” said Jorge Perez, general manager of Edison Works Advanced Combat Engines at GE Aerospace.
