LE BOURGET—Safran has detailed some of the upgrades it is making to the M88 engine under the so-called T-REX program to boost thrust and address the power needs of the new Dassault Rafale F5 standard the French Air Force is buying.
The M88 T-REX will bring the engine’s thrust to around 19,800 lb. with an afterburner, Safran said July 17. The current engine delivers around 16,500-lb. thrust.
To achieve the higher output, Safran said it will pursue several upgrades, improving the low-pressure compressor to increase airflow intake, while the high-pressure turbine will incorporate new materials and next-generation cooling circuits to be able to run hotter. The M88 nozzle will also get aerodynamic reshaping.
Safran also pledged to make the engine more maintainable.
France aims to field the Rafale F5 around 2033. Safran said it is still working on risk-reduction studies, with the engine expected to be ready for the F5’s fielding.
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