Aerospace Propulsion and Power Technology

The Aerospace Propulsion and Power Technology program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on advancing technologies in turbine, rocket, and space propulsion, as well as electrical power and thermal management. The program aims to enhance the performance of current and future Air Force weapon systems through five key projects. These projects include developing adaptive power and thermal management systems for aircraft, integrating engine cores with low-pressure components for demonstrator engines, advancing scramjet propulsion cycles for flight demonstration, developing core turbine engine technologies, and innovating rocket propulsion technologies.

The Aerospace Power Technology project is dedicated to creating adaptive architectures and systems that improve the reliability and survivability of aircraft while reducing weight and life cycle costs. This involves developing components that enhance aircraft reliability by up to five times and integrating these advancements into energy-optimized aircraft efforts. In FY 2025, this project will transition to the Aerospace Technology Development/Demonstration program to further integrate with flight systems control.

Missile Rocket Propulsion Integration & Demo focuses on sustaining strategic missile systems by developing environmentally acceptable and cost-effective propulsion technologies. The project emphasizes increasing the lifespan and performance of propulsion systems while supporting the rocket propulsion industry across the Department of Defense. In FY 2025, this initiative will also move to the Aerospace Technology Development/Demonstration program for continued development under missile propulsion technologies.

The Aircraft Propulsion Subsystems Integration project aims to improve turbine engine capabilities by enhancing operational reliability and reducing fuel consumption. This involves integrating advanced engine core technologies with other engine components to achieve longer range and higher speeds for aircraft. The project also addresses safety improvements and compatibility with airframes. Like other projects in this program element, it will transition in FY 2025 to align with broader aerospace technology development efforts under a new program element focused on high-speed systems integration.