XA102 | |
---|---|
Type | Adaptive cycle engine |
National origin | United States |
Manufacturer | General Electric |
Major applications | Next Generation Air Dominance (planned) |
The General Electric XA102 is an American adaptive cycle engine demonstrator being developed by General Electric (GE). It is competing with the Pratt & Whitney XA103 as the powerplant for the United States Air Force's sixth generation fighter program, the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD).[1]
The three-stream adaptive cycle design can direct air to the bypass third stream for increased fuel efficiency and cooling or to the core and fan streams for additional thrust and performance. The engine thrust has not been disclosed, although it is speculated by aviation reporters to be in the 35,000–40,000 lbf (156–178 kN) thrust class.[2]