Propulsion
XA100 Adaptive Cycle Engine
The future of the F-35 is adaptive
Bringing long-term, transformational capability to the F-35A and F-35C
A new era of combat propulsion
As the F-35 evolves to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive environment, its engine must keep up. That means an engine with transformational increases in power and cooling capacity for next-generation systems, better fuel economy, additional thrust, and more durability than today.
GE is ready to answer the call with the XA100 adaptive cycle engine. Designed, built and testing through the U.S. Air Force's Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP), the XA100 represents a step-change in propulsion that maximizes the F-35A and F-35C's capabilities for decades to come.
Unrivaled performance,
validated by test
GE’s XA100 became the world’s first ever flight-weight, three-stream adaptive cycle engine to fire up in December 2020 before initiating tests on a second engine in August 2021. The XA100 began tests at the U.S. Air Force's Arnold Engineering Development Complex in March 2022.
GE’s engine is uniquely designed to fit both the F-35A and F-35C without any structural modifications to either airframe — meaning compatibility with nearly 90% of the F-35 program of record.
This engine enables transformational benefits in aircraft range, acceleration, and cooling power to accommodate next-generation mission systems, while also ensuring durability and enhanced readiness.
Why the Time is Now for GE’s XA100
The Future of the F-35 is Adaptive
Creating new operational possibilities
>10
%
More thrust
Adaptive engine
This adaptive cycle engine provides a high thrust mode for maximum power and high efficiency mode to extend mission range. Automatically alternating between these modes dramatically transforms mission capability and enables unrestricted operations.
2
x
POWER & Thermal management capability
Third stream advantage
This advanced capability provides an extra source of cooled air to improve propulsive and fuel efficiency. Most importantly, it enables a step-change in power and thermal management capability that will be required to accommodate and fully exploit the next-generation mission systems on the F-35.
25
%
BETTER fuel efficiency
Advanced materials and components
Ceramic matrix composites (CMC) can withstand temperatures of hundreds of degrees while being lighter weight and more durable than traditional materials. The use of additive manufacturing has lessened the engine’s weight, reduced the number of parts, and will improve serviceability.
Engine Advantages
Fuel savings
Three-stream, adaptive architecture enables lower fuel spend and reduces tanker reliance
25% betterFuel Consumption
More thrust
To give fighter pilots more of what they need, when they need it
>10%Greater Thrust
Better heat absorption
Enabled through 3D-printed (additive) heat exchangers
2xThermal Management Capacity
Carbon reduction benefits
Reducing CO2 emissions over F-35 life cycle
SAF CompatibleCan operate on U.S. Air Force-approved Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), commonly known as "biofuels"
Lighter and more durable
Ceramic matrix composites (CMC) are 1/3 the weight of traditional metal parts
500°F Can withstand 500°F more heat
Aircraft Benefits
Uniquely designed to fit both the F-35A and F-35C without any structural modifications to either airframe — meaning compatibility with nearly 90% of the F-35 program of record.
Increased range
So pilots can fly longer in more combat scenarios
30%Increase in range
Increased acceleration
To allow pilots more nimble tactics and aggressive pursuit
20-40%Greater acceleration
Next-generation mission systems
As new missions systems are introduced to the F-35, this engine’s third stream will provide significant improvements in thermal management to enable mission systems growth for decades to come
2X Mission systems growth potential
The XA100 is a product of GE's Edison Works, a team dedicated to the research, development, and production of advanced military solutions.
This team has full responsibility for strategy, innovation, and execution of advanced programs.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
