Aerospace Systems Technologies

The PE 0602203F: Aerospace Systems Technologies program is a comprehensive Air Force applied research initiative managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Aerospace Systems Directorate, with primary locations at Wright-Patterson AFB, Edwards AFB, and Arnold AFB. Its overarching goal is to investigate, develop, and analyze advanced aerospace system technologies that remove operational limitations and enhance warfighter capabilities in anticipation of future threats. The program integrates efforts across aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, power, flight controls, fuels, and rocket propulsion. These efforts support the development of autonomous collaborative platforms, high-speed weapons, and rapidly produced or upgraded platforms.

622401: Aerodynamics and Structures Technology focuses on advancing aerodynamic vehicle configurations, new materials, and manufacturing processes. Objectives include developing affordable, agile manufacturing concepts for unmanned systems, improving fatigue life of composite structures, and integrating embedded propulsion systems. FY 2026 plans emphasize ground testing of braided wing box structures, optimization of composite fabrication, and conceptual design for next-generation unmanned air vehicles. The project also supports innovative weapons integration and thermal airflow impinged structures. These efforts aim to increase survivability, payload, and speed while reducing cost and weight.

622403: Aerospace Power & Flight Control Technology seeks to maximize affordable capability for both manned and autonomous platforms. Key goals include developing advanced flight controls, automation, and autonomy technologies for safe and efficient operation in contested environments. The project also integrates electrical and thermal management systems to meet future aircraft power demands. FY 2026 activities include trusted autonomy tool development, dynamic tasking for heterogeneous teams, digital engineering for mission management, and the maturation of power and thermal architectures for modular electrified aircraft. Funding transfers within this area reflect a strategic shift to accelerate integrated system capabilities.

622405: High Speed Systems Technology investigates technologies for multi-Mach, hypersonic weapons and platforms. The project addresses challenges such as durability, broad operability, integrated power and thermal management, and mission system integration. FY 2026 priorities include maturing structural concepts, validating modeling and simulation tools, and developing high-speed propulsion technologies, including scramjets and ramjets, for reusable and expendable platforms. Administrative transfers support system-level thrusts, enabling faster integration and risk reduction for operational transition.

623066: Turbine Engine Technology develops air-breathing engine technologies for manned, unmanned, and munition applications. The program's objectives are to improve compressor and turbine design for embedded applications, enhance durability and efficiency, and reduce development time and cost. FY 2026 efforts include aerodynamic tool validation, fan module testing, lubrication studies, and disruptive propulsion concepts such as rotating detonation engines. The project also supports rapid assessment and manufacturing of engine components, aligning with the Air Force's need for affordable mass production and embedded propulsion for autonomous platforms.

625171: Missile Rocket Propulsion is dedicated to developing rocket propulsion technologies for strategic and tactical missile systems. The project's goals include advancing propellant chemistry, automated production techniques, and digital engineering for rapid design and testing. FY 2026 plans involve synthesizing new energetic ingredients, evaluating solid and liquid propellants, and supporting flight demonstrations and service life evaluations. The project sustains the rocket propulsion industrial base and is reviewed annually by a DoD steering committee to ensure alignment with national defense needs.

625330: Aerospace Fuel Technology evaluates and develops fuels for turbine engines, scramjets, and combined cycle engines, emphasizing reliability, durability, and performance for high-speed and autonomous systems. Research areas include alternative and specialty fuels, thermal management, fuel chemistry monitoring, and converting military waste to fuel components. FY 2026 activities focus on advancing fuel composition tools, heat sink approaches, real-time coking sensors, and endothermic fuel candidates for hypersonic applications. The project supports increased performance and affordability for future aerospace platforms.