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US Air Force Seeks New Engines for Next Drone Fighter

Key Takeaways
  • US Air Force seeks new engines for Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2.
  • Nine vendors are in concept refinement phase, with up to six designs to be carried forward.
  • Two new engine classes are being developed: small and medium thrust.
  • Competition will reopen beyond the nine refinement vendors.
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Strategic Implications

The development of new engines for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2 may indicate the Air Force's growing need for advanced propulsion systems. The focus on two engine classes suggests a shift in priorities towards greater flexibility and adaptability in future drone fighters, which could impact the competitive landscape for aerospace manufacturers.

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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.

Source | Originally Published: August 24, 2026

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JUMPSEAT
AEROSPACE NEWS
JUMPSEAT
AEROSPACE NEWS

US Air Force Seeks New Engines for Next Drone Fighter

Sponsored by: Jumpseat Solutions
Key Takeaways
  • US Air Force seeks new engines for Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2.
  • Nine vendors are in concept refinement phase, with up to six designs to be carried forward.
  • Two new engine classes are being developed: small and medium thrust.
  • Competition will reopen beyond the nine refinement vendors.
Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.
Upgrade
Strategic Implications

The development of new engines for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 2 may indicate the Air Force's growing need for advanced propulsion systems. The focus on two engine classes suggests a shift in priorities towards greater flexibility and adaptability in future drone fighters, which could impact the competitive landscape for aerospace manufacturers.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.
Upgrade

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.

Source | Originally Published: August 24, 2026

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