GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin demonstrate rotating-detonation ramjet for hypersonic missiles

GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin have completed a series of engine tests demonstrating the viability of a liquid-fuelled, rotating-detonation ramjet for use in hypersonic missiles, Lockheed Martin announced on 14 January 2026.

The development is the first initiative between the companies under a broader joint technology development arrangement.

The fuel-efficient, rotating-detonation ramjet promises to fly missiles faster –including at hypersonic speeds – and farther while decreasing costs compared to other ramjet options.

Specifically, the compact design enables increased fuel or payload capacity and lowers the cost of production; the improved fuel efficiency and thrust generation extends range; while ignition is achieved at a lower speed, meaning that smaller boosters can be used for ramjet start.

The rotating-detonation ramjet combusts fuel and air through detonation waves instead of the traditional combustion methods used in current ramjet engines. This generates high thrust for super- and hypersonic speeds to engage high-value, time-sensitive targets with a smaller engine size and weight that boosts range.

The ramjet developed by the two companies features GE Aerospace’s rotating-detonation combustion system combined with Lockheed Martin’s tactical inlet, which enables high-speed airflow to the combustor. The companies conducted direct connect tests in ramjet ignition and cruise conditions at the GE Aerospace Research Center in Niskayuna, New York, to demonstrate the operation of an air-breathing rotating-detonation ramjet for missile applications. Engineers injected air into the inlet to represent supersonic flight at various speeds and altitudes, including high cruising altitudes where the thin air challenges robust combustion.

“GE Aerospace’s hypersonic capabilities continue to advance at a rapid pace, and this collaboration with Lockheed Martin is another step forward in our journey,” Mark Rettig, vice president and general manager of Edison Works Advanced Programs at GE Aerospace, was quoted as saying in a Lockheed Martin press release. “The testing on the rotating-detonation ramjet and inlet exceeded expectations, and we are excited about this collaboration to continue maturing our advanced air-breathing hypersonic propulsion technologies.”

“Following two years of internal investment, this demonstration is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and joint commitment to get affordable capability into the hands of warfighters at the speed of relevance,” added Randy Crites, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs. “This compact ramjet applies Lockheed Martin’s expertise in ramjet inlets and offers extended range at extreme speeds. We’re committed to delivering a propulsion system that advances America’s hypersonic capability in an intensifying threat environment.”

GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin will continue to mature the technology throughout 2026.