JetCat Defense Debuts New Turbine Engines for Defense Applications

JetCat Defense has announced that it plans to showcase its new P850 and P420 turbine engines at the Air & Space Forces Association, Air, Space & Cyber Conference, September 22-24, in National Harbor, Maryland, at booth #323.

The company is based in the U.S. and offers BAA-compliant propulsion systems. It was formed through a joint venture between BSEL USA and JetCat to combine defense experience with commercial innovation in propulsion technology. 

The P850 is a 200-pound-thrust class engine JetCat developed as a scaled version of its P1000 platform. Designed for applications that require weight and space capacity as well as electrical power, the P850 offers features like:

• Design that supports compact integration
• 2kW of onboard electrical output for mission-critical systems
• Impressive thrust-to-weight ratio

The P420 is a 100-pound-thrust class engine that stems from the P400 series. It focuses on enhancing responsiveness and reliability for mass deployment applications. Enhancements to this model include:

• Faster startup characteristics
• Dual-redundant ignition
• Expanded utility in demanding environments

Both engines feature all subsystems and accessories required for operation integrated into the engine volume. Each unit incorporates electrical start without pyrotechnics, simplifying logistics and improving safety.

The designs are optimized for cost efficiency with COTS components, eliminating reliance on exotic materials and mitigating supply chain constraints. The engines are suitable for deployment across ground, sea and air-launch applications.

“These engines extend our portfolio with reliable, cost-effective options for emerging defense requirements. By combining JetCat’s COTS innovation and high-rate production know-how with BSEL’s military engine expertise, we can respond quickly to U.S. demand with scalable capacity,” said Adam Cherrill, vice president, Business Development, JetCat Defense. 

JetCat Defense is accepting orders for both engines. A pilot production line is planned by the end of this year, with a phased ramp to low-rate production in 2026 and full-rate production in 2027.

JetCat Defense aligns with U.S. initiatives for mass deployment and rapid fielding, offering an affordable, expendable approach to propulsion for:

• Strike weapons
• PGMs
• UAV programs