AECC Ignites High-End Turbofan Engine, Boosting China's UAV Capabilities

AECC Successfully Ignites High-End Turbofan Engine

The Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) achieved a significant milestone on Friday with the successful ignition of its independently developed 600-kilogram thrust-class high-end turbofan engine. This accomplishment marks a major step forward in China's pursuit of advanced engine technology.

The engine boasts impressive capabilities, including operation at an altitude of 15,000 meters and a speed of Mach 0.8. It also exhibits long endurance and high reliability, making it ideal for high-end unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other applications.

Remarkably, the engine's development from initial design to first successful ignition was completed in a remarkably short timeframe of less than eight months. This rapid progress highlights AECC's commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

Looking ahead, the engine is scheduled for its first flight in June 2025, followed by final certification in 2026. This will significantly enhance China's capabilities in the 1.5 to 4-ton UAV category, bolstering its position in the global market.

The successful development and ignition of this high-end turbofan engine represent a significant achievement for AECC and China's aerospace industry. It underscores the country's growing technological prowess and its commitment to developing advanced aviation technologies.