GE Aerospace and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions have completed the first successful ignition of the GEK800 turbofan cruise missile propulsion system at Kratos’ X-58 test facility. The test used GEK800 Serial Number 1 and covered a key development step for the engine, which has now been designated F143. The companies said the result keeps the programme on schedule for long-range, stand-off strike requirements for the US Department of War.
The ignition campaign is now moving into further testing after the engine reached a 100% success rate in this phase, according to the companies. GE Aerospace linked the outcome to performance and durability targets, while Kratos framed the work as part of its effort to deliver affordable, high-performance propulsion for cruise missiles.
The F143 programme is intended to support future missile propulsion needs rather than commercial aviation use. The latest test at Kratos’ Arizona facility provides the first live validation of the engine architecture under development and establishes the baseline for subsequent evaluation work.