What Happened
Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2 Faces Engine Development Challenges
The US Air Force is seeking new engines for its next-generation drone fighter, the Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2. With nine vendors in the concept refinement phase, the service plans to select up to six designs to move forward. However, the real challenge lies in developing two new engine classes: a small engine with 1,400-1,600 lb thrust and a medium engine with 5,000-6,000 lb thrust. This development was reported by National Defense Magazine, citing officials at the US Air Force Life Cycle Industry Days conference.