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

Continued investment will accelerate path to integrated vehicle test

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: 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," said 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.

About Pratt & Whitney 
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more visit www.prattwhitney.com.

About RTX 
RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

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SOURCE RTX