GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) secured a U.S. Air Force contract to complete the preliminary design review for its GE426 engine. This next-generation propulsion system supports the Air Force’s Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) program for uncrewed combat aircraft.

The award follows GE’s successful concept design review of the GE426 in August 2025. The company will now focus on maturing the prototype’s design, producibility, and cost to meet military requirements.

This development aligns with GE’s strategic investment in small, affordable engines for autonomous combat fleets. The contract advances a critical component for future autonomous military operations.