These are cheaper and faster to build compared to engines built using traditional methods.
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Beehive Industries, a startup jet engine manufacturer based in Colorado, just secured a $30 million contract from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to continue the research and development of small 3D-printed jet engines for uncrewed aircraft and stand-off weapons. According to the company , the USAF funding is allocated for vehicle integration, flight testing, and qualification of the Frenzy 8 — the company’s flagship engine that delivers 200lbs of thrust — as well as the possible flight demonstration of the smaller 100lb-thrust Frenzy 6. By comparison, the F-16 Viper is powered by either a GE F110 or Pratt & Whitney F100 engine, both of which develop thrust of over 29,000lbs.
“By harnessing additive manufacturing to collapse complex supply chains into scalable, 3D-printed propulsion, we are providing the ‘affordable mass’ essential to modern deterrence,” said Beehive Industries Chief Product Officer Gordie Follin said. “This collaboration ensures our warfighters will have the high-volume, mission-ready capabilities they need to maintain a competitive edge in any theater.” The company is competing against established giants like GE Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Honeywell Aerospace for the small engine contract. This might seem like it’s disadvantaged, especially as these companies have established contracts with the Pentagon. However, all three have reported backlogs in various departments, meaning Beehive could probably deliver and maintain its engines much quicker than them.
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Key considerations
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Reference reading
- https://www.tomshardware.com/3d-printing/SPONSORED_LINK_URL
- https://www.tomshardware.com/3d-printing/startup-secures-usd30-million-contract-to-3d-print-jet-engines-for-the-usaf-company-to-test-and-develop-small-turbojets-for-drones-and-long-range-weapons#main
- https://www.tomshardware.com
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