Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP)

The Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program builds upon advanced materials, technologies and manufacturing processes matured under the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (which ended in FY2024) to enhance adaptive propulsion system performance and size scalability key to enabling future aircraft capabilities. Embedded adaptive propulsion systems combine the fuel efficiency of high-bypass turbofan engines used by commercial airlines with the performance demanded of military fighter engines with augmenters. Increased fuel efficiency reduces energy demand and aerial tanker dependency while increasing platform range and or time on station. During peacetime, these benefits translate to reduced aerial tanker dependency during exercises and a choice between increased aircrew readiness or cost savings due to the less fuel needed. NGAP prototyping will validate the performance and maturity of its enabling advanced technologies, platform agnostic engine architectures and designs, and manufacturing processes through prototype testing. NGAP also drives digital transformation of the propulsion industrial base to reduce future integration risks while shortening development timelines. Program RDT&E funding may be utilized to implement innovation insertion, capability insertion, software increments, spiral upgrades, modular component swaps, and other insertions consistent with Modular Open System Architecture. Program RDT&E funding may be utilized to design, develop, integrate, and test weapon system and/or component level open architectures. Program RDT&E funding may be utilized to fund the concept refinement, design, development, integration, and testing of interdependent technologies and common architectures that underpin weapon system and portfolio-wide mission outcomes. This program element included all necessary expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability. The use of such program funds would be in addition to the civilian pay expenses budgeted in program elements 0605829F, 0605831F, 0605833F, and 0605898F This effort is in Budget Activity 4, Advanced Component Development and Prototypes (ACD&P), because efforts are necessary to evaluate integrated technologies, representative modes or prototype systems in a high fidelity and realistic operating environment.