RTX's Pratt & Whitney completes series of rotating detonation engine testing

Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, has completed a series of tests on its rotating detonation engine (RDE) work with the RTX Technology Research Center. Positive test results are spurring additional internal investment as Pratt & Whitney works with Department of Defense to accelerate a path to an integrated engine and vehicle ground test in the coming years.

“Our testing simulated aggressive assumptions for how and where the rotating detonation engine needs to perform,” says Chris Hugill, senior director of GATORWORKS at Pratt & Whitney. “This testing validated key elements of Pratt & Whitney's design approach and provides substantiation to continue RTX vehicle and propulsion integration to accelerate future capabilities for our customers.”

Rotating detonation engines differ from traditional turbojet or turbofan engines in that they utilize a different thermodynamic cycle and require no moving parts. The result is high thermal efficiency and performance, which allows for a small, compact and cost-effective engine. These attributes create room for additional fuel, sensors and payload, and can enable longer-range for vehicles that are critical to future defense applications.