Kratos Unveils Affordable Engine for Cruise Missiles and Collaborative Combat Aircraft

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has taken a significant step forward in military aviation technology with the introduction of a new low-cost engine, the GEK800. This innovative engine, developed in collaboration with GE Aerospace, is designed to power both cruise missiles and the U.S. Air Force’s futuristic Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).

The GEK800 engine stands out for its impressive performance and adaptability. It can generate up to 3,000 pounds (1,360 kilograms) of thrust, making it an ideal candidate for cruise missiles. However, its design also allows for scalability, a crucial feature for meeting the diverse and evolving requirements of the CCA program. GE Aerospace President Amy Gowder emphasized the engine's flexible architecture, stating, “As we see the requirements firm up, we’ll decide how high to scale or not. Certainly, there’s a lot of requirements that have not been disclosed on CCA due to the classified nature.”

Kratos has announced that the development phase of the GEK800 is complete, and the engine is now undergoing a series of rigorous tests. These tests are critical to ensuring that the engine meets the high standards required for military applications. According to Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco, the engine is "just about ready to go," and they are already in discussions with potential customers about its deployment. DeMarco added, “We understand what the first platforms will be, what the first systems will be, and we understand the competitive landscape from pricing and performance.”

One of the most appealing aspects of the GEK800 is its cost-effectiveness. Although the exact price has not been disclosed, Amy Gowder highlighted that the engine is designed to meet defense customers' growing demand for affordable solutions without compromising on performance. This focus on cost efficiency is particularly relevant in the current global defense landscape, where budget constraints and the need for advanced technology are constant challenges.

In addition to its suitability for cruise missiles and the CCA program, the GEK800 engine is also versatile enough to power drones and loitering munitions. These capabilities make it a valuable asset in modern warfare, where unmanned systems are increasingly playing a pivotal role.

The next major milestone for the GEK800 will be its altitude testing, scheduled for next year. This testing will further validate the engine's performance and reliability under various conditions, paving the way for its integration into military platforms.

Kratos's unveiling of the GEK800 engine marks a significant advancement in military propulsion technology. With its blend of high performance, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, the GEK800 is poised to play a crucial role in future defense systems, addressing the needs of both current and emerging military missions.