US aerospace firm clears new adaptive engine for Boeing F-47 sixth-gen fighter jet

GE Aerospace said its XA102 adaptive cycle engine passed the U.S. Air Force’s Assembly Readiness Review under the NGAP program.

The milestone confirms the engine is ready for assembly and keeps development on track for a full system demo later in 2026.

XA102 is part of the effort to deliver more range, cooling, thrust, and electrical power for future fighter aircraft, including Boeing’s F-47.

The company cited digital manufacturing, model-based definition, and ceramic matrix composites as enablers of the program.