"Knock down from the use of" air defense of Russia and China: RTX creates a fundamentally new rocket engine (video)

RDE (Rotating Datonation Engine) is a new class of jet installations, which is characterized by the absence of moving parts. Unlike traditional turbojet and turbo fan -based engines that run on a continuous combustion, the rotating detonation engine uses controlled detonation waves to create traction. This process eliminates the need for complex turbine blades, increasing thermal efficiency and reducing the weight of the structure.

Among the potential advantages of technology: At the same time, the development of RDE is accompanied by a number of technical difficulties, including the search for the optimal fuel mixture that can provide stable and reliable engine operation. "The stability of combustion remains a constant problem, as waves of detonation can fluctuate unpredictable that the engine is threatened," the authors of the material emphasized.

Although Pratt & Whitney tests have not been successful, the company did not reveal key details such as thrust, engine duration and test conditions. However, during the test, the engine prototype could be checked at high temperatures, speeds and pressure drops, which is important for use in hypersonic devices. The authors of the material note that the Gambit program, which develops RDE, is focused on creating advanced engines for combat aircraft.

This technology is expected to allow the fourth -generation fighters to strike for purposes with greater efficiency. In addition, the US is actively developing hypersonic weapons, including AGM-183A Arrw. Therefore, high efficiency of RDE at compact sizes can theoretically solve some of the problems associated with overheating and aerodynamic loads of hypersonic platforms.

According to Beat Meinard, Deputy Director of Prospective Military Engines, the next stage is the integration of RDE into land vehicles. In connection with innovation, experts emphasized that the interest, which shows the development of the Pentagon, emphasizes the need for the United States to maintain technological advantage. At the same time, China and Russia are also developing advanced aviation and rocket technologies.

In China, 2021 tests of a fractional orbital bombing system took place, and in Russia the hypersonic rocket "Dagel" has already been launched. Thus, if the Pratt & Whitney Detonation Engine is successfully brought to the stage of serial production, it can give the US a significant advantage, especially in the Indo-Pacific.