China has marked a significant milestone in aerospace engineering by successfully completing the first ignition test of its domestically developed 600-kilogram thrust turbofan engine. The test was conducted in Chengdu, the capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, and was announced by the Aero Engine Corporation of China on Friday.
This new turbofan engine, the first of its kind developed in China, delivers a thrust of 600 kilograms and is fully owned in terms of intellectual property rights by the nation. It boasts capabilities of reaching altitudes above 15,000 meters and speeds exceeding Mach 0.8. Among its standout features are long endurance, low fuel consumption, and high reliability, positioning it as a competitive advancement in the aerospace sector.
Primarily intended for high-end unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the engine was developed in less than eight months—a new record for the research and development of such turbofan engines. This rapid progression underscores China’s growing expertise and innovation in aerospace technology.
The engine is scheduled for its first flight conditions in June 2025 and is expected to achieve final design approval by 2026. Once operational, it is anticipated to significantly enhance China’s capabilities in the 1.5- to 4-tonne UAV category, potentially impacting both military and civilian applications.
This advancement not only represents a leap forward in UAV technology but also signals China’s commitment to advancing its indigenous aerospace capabilities. By reducing reliance on foreign technology, China is positioning itself as a leader in the global aerospace industry.
Reference(s):
China completes ignition test for 600-kg thrust turbofan engine
cgtn.com
