GE awarded full turbofan demonstrator contract for critical USAF development effort

The United States Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has increased GE Aviation's research contract for the Adaptive Versatile Engine Technology (ADVENT) program to include the design, build, and test of a full turbofan demonstrator engine. This modification will enable GE to address the USAF's next-generation propulsion requirements by fully assessing the innovative ADVENT portfolio of technologies in a complete propulsion system.

Work is scheduled to be completed in 2013 and will position GE to offer its unique ADVENT solutions to next generation DoD aircraft. GE has increased its ADVENT contract cost share to fully fund the turbofan program, demonstrating its intent to deliver next-generation technologies in partnership with AFRL.

ADVENT focuses on developing game-changing technologies for future military and commercial engines. Technologies proven within the ADVENT program will significantly reduce engine fuel burn in future military and commercial propulsion systems and, through follow-on technology insertions, in today's engines.

"We are pleased that the Air Force Research Lab has the required confidence in GE's ADVENT technologies to partner with us in this extended effort," said Jeff Martin, general manager of New and Derivative Products in GE's Military Systems Operation.

Enabling technologies featured in GE's demonstrator engines include a hot section featuring advanced Ceramic Matrix Composite materials, GE's next-generation cooled turbine and the highest overall pressure ratio for any turbofan in GE history. The turbofan demonstrator incorporates GE's unique variable fan design that offers significant mission flexibility for future vehicles, as well as a cool third stream flow for high power extraction and thermal management.

AFRL awarded GE follow-on funding under ADVENT Phase II in October 2009 in recognition of the value of the innovative engine design and testing performed during the Phase I contract. Follow-on work included fan rig testing, several system rig demonstrations and a full-scale core engine test.

ADVENT is part of the Versatile Affordable Advanced Turbine Engines (VAATE) program, sponsored by industry and Government partners to advanced state-of-the-art turbine engine technology for military aviation.