Jet engine maker GE Aviation is partnering with NASA to research advanced engine cores for single-aisle aircraft.

As part of NASA’s Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core (HyTEC) project GE Aviation has been awarded multiple cost-share contracts for engine core development. The contracts are valued at more than $20m, including both NASA and GE investments. Plans are to ground test a new compact engine core by the mid-2020s.

GE Aviation will test and mature compact jet engine core designs – including compressor, combustor and high-pressure turbine technologies – to improve thermal efficiency. The project will also involve the continued development of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs), an advanced, heat-resistant material.

Mohamed Ali, vice president of engineering for GE Aviation, said: “The HyTEC project further expands GE Aviation’s partnership with NASA on the future of flight with our shared commitment to accelerate the introduction of technologies that reduce the environmental impact of commercial aviation and make a step-change reduction in fuel burn.

“We are grateful for NASA’s confidence in GE Aviation as a partner to co-develop sustainable technology solutions, including new aircraft engine cores and hybrid electric powertrains that are critical elements of our CFM RISE Programme.”

The HyTEC awards, under NASA’s Sustainable Flight National Partnership, complement the organisation’s recent selection of GE Aviation for a megawatt-class hybrid electric technology demonstrator.