A new family of turbojet engines, designed, built, and tested entirely in the UK, has been co-developed through a partnership between the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and UK start-up Alloyed. One engine in this programme progressed from initial concept to flight-ready status in less than seven months.
These digitally manufactured turbojet engines are intended for use in various aircraft, from small drones to larger models. The programme aims to establish a sovereign propulsion capability for future defence systems, enhancing the UK's ability to independently design, manufacture, test, and sustain critical defence capabilities.
The initiative has already generated more than 60 engineering and advanced manufacturing jobs in Britain, with an additional 45 roles anticipated over the next 12 months as production increases. The programme also supports a national supply chain involving over 40 UK suppliers, many of which are small and medium-sized enterprises.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, stated that the programme demonstrates how defence and industry can collaborate to deliver capabilities at the speed required today. Michael Holmes, CEO of Alloyed, highlighted the use of the company's metals technologies to develop advanced propulsion systems rapidly.