Small
Engines
Advancing propulsion solutions
for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)
GE Aerospace is advancing propulsion solutions for the Department of War’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) mission through targeted investment in small, medium, and large engine technologies, strategic partnerships, and rapid development programs. Our focus is on delivering affordable, scalable, high-performance propulsion for uncrewed and autonomous Air Force and Navy systems.
Propulsion Built for CCA Readiness
GE Aerospace is leading the propulsion side of CCA readiness with:
- Active development programs across multiple thrust classes
- A proven, fast-moving test pipeline
- Scalable production architecture aligned to mass, limited-life platforms
Our approach ensures propulsion systems are production-ready, affordable, and adaptable as mission requirements evolve.
Strategic Partnerships That Scale
GE Aerospace and Kratos are jointly developing, manufacturing, testing, and fielding cost-effective small engines for uncrewed systems and CCAs.
Together, we deliver:
Together, we deliver:
- Affordable engines at scale
- Reduced cost and risk through shared investment
- Propulsion aligned to DoW’s drive for mass and speed
Next Generation of Affordable High Performance Engines
GEK800
The GEK800 is a scaled architecture starting out at around 800 pounds of thrust and could scale up to about 3,000 pounds. The planned range is ideally suited for cruise missiles, drones and loitering munitions, with the design possible for CCA use.
Its compact size and powerful thrust make the GEK800 an ideal propulsion solution for high-speed cruise missiles, enabling rapid strike capabilities.
GEK1500
In addition to the joint work on the GEK800, GE Aerospace and Kratos are working on a new engine, the GEK1500.
The GEK1500 is a 1,500-pound-thrust engine intended to power reusable aircraft in uncrewed combat applications such as CCAs. The U.S. Air Force's Next-Generation Air Dominance initiative calls for CCAs—also known as “loyal wingman” vehicles—to operate alongside a future crewed fighter platform.
