Propulsion
XA100 Adaptive Cycle Engine
Outperform. Outpace. Only AETP.
Tested and ready to deliver revolutionary capabilities for F-35.

Tested and ready to deliver revolutionary capabilities for F-35.
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 tested 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.
Real engine. Real performance.
Adaptive engine
The 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.
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.
Advanced materials and components
The use of new, lighter weight and more durable materials along with advanced additive manufacturing methods allow the engine to operate beyond previous generation engine limits for more survivability. These new materials and methods also improve reliability and serviceability of the engine.
Three-stream, adaptive architecture enables lower fuel spend and reduces tanker reliance
To give fighter pilots more of what they need, when they need it
Enabled through 3D-printed (additive) heat exchangers
Reducing CO2 emissions over F-35 life cycle
Ceramic matrix composites (CMC) are 1/3 the weight of traditional metal parts
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.
So pilots can fly longer in more combat scenarios
To allow pilots more nimble tactics and aggressive pursuit
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
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.