GE Aerospace's Successful Supersonic Flight Tests: A New Era for Solid-Fueled Propulsion

GE Aerospace's Triumph in Supersonic Flight Testing

On September 22, 2025, GE Aerospace made headlines by successfully completing its first supersonic captive carry flight tests at the Kennedy Space Center, showcasing the potential of solid-fueled ramjet (SFRJ) propulsion technology. Mark Rettig, Vice President and General Manager of Edison Works Business Technology Development at GE Aerospace, described the achievement as a pivotal moment for the company and a crucial step in advancing aerospace technology.

The test featured the Atmospheric Test of Launched Airbreathing System (ATLAS) Flight Test Vehicle, which was carried aloft by a Starfighters F-104 aircraft. This test campaign encompassed three successful flights that reached supersonic speeds, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of the SFRJ technology.

The ATLAS project is backed by the Department of War, funded through Title III of the Defense Production Act. The initiative aims to scale up air-breathing propulsion technology, which can significantly enhance the range of munitions. By demonstrating and validating the key performance capabilities of solid fuel ramjets in flight, GE Aerospace is gathering vital data that will inform future systems geared towards improved speed, range, and responsiveness.

Rettig’s remarks highlighted the role of captive carry testing, which provides insights into how the system performs under realistic atmospheric conditions. This method also facilitates more frequent testing, enabling engineers to better understand the nuances of how the technology behaves when in operation.

The significance of this testing extends beyond just these initial flights; it is part of a broader strategy by GE Aerospace to invest in advanced high-speed and hypersonic propulsion technologies. The company is ramping up its research capabilities, having acquired Innoveering in 2022, which enhances their hypersonics portfolio. Alongside this acquisition, GE Aerospace has announced major upgrades to its test infrastructure at key locations including Evendale, Ohio; Bohemia, New York; and Niskayuna, New York. These enhancements are designed to support higher-Mach mission-relevant testing that was not achievable before.

As a leader in aerospace propulsion and services, GE Aerospace boasts an impressive portfolio, with approximately 49,000 commercial and 29,000 military aircraft engines installed worldwide. With a dedicated team of around 53,000 professionals, GE Aerospace is driven by a commitment to pioneer advancements in aviation, ensuring safety and reliability for air travel.

GE Aerospace's ongoing innovations in propulsion systems signify a transformative shift in aerospace technology. This latest development not only increases the scalability of solid-fuel ramjet technology but also promises to secure the company’s competitive edge in the evolving landscape of aerospace propulsion options. As they pave the way for the future of flight, including potential military applications and advancements in commercial air travel, the implications of such successful testing are vast. This achievement places GE Aerospace at the forefront of a new era in aerospace, emphasizing their role as a key player in defining the future of aviation and ensuring both passenger and cargo safety worldwide.

For more insights into GE Aerospace’s technological advancements and updates, visit their official website.