How GE's proposed XA100 engine will revolutionise the F-35

Alan Warnes speaks with GE’s David Tweedie about the XA100 adaptive cycle engine that is set to revolutionise fifth-generation F-35A/C Lightning II fighters.

Getting fighters to fly more efficiently has always been the goal of most responsible air forces, but the turbofan engine has been taken as far as it can go and a new solution is needed.

GE believes it has the answer with its adaptive cycle engine technology, which is set to deliver a new-generation powerplant known as the XA100 that is designed to transform the F-35A and F-35C Lightning II fifth-generation multi-role stealth fighters.

David Tweedie, general manager for advanced combat engines at GE Edison Works – a business unit dedicated to the research, development and production of advanced military technology – spoke exclusively to AirForces Monthly about this game-changer.