A pioneering programme
The Demonstrator will be a piloted, supersonic aircraft that will help us to understand more about the advanced technology that is required to deliver a sixth-generation fighter jet.
Designing and developing a new combat aircraft like Tempest is a complex, multi-year engineering endeavour that involves advanced design, integration of cutting-edge technologies, rigorous testing, and collaboration to meet regulatory and airworthiness standards.
The UK has a proud heritage in this field, but it has been 40 years since the UK has led the early stages of designing and building a completely new and ground-breaking combat aircraft.
The progress we have made together with MOD and industry in such a short space of time has been remarkable, and the aircraft is set to fly within the next three years.
The latest programme updates
Manufacturing
Manufacturing and assembly of the main aircraft structure is underway on the country’s first crewed combat air demonstrator for a generation. Two thirds of its structural weight now in manufacturing.
Crew Ejection
Working alongside UK crew escape specialist, Martin Baker, a team of BAE Systems engineers has led ejection seat trials, using a rocket-propelled sled travelling at speeds of more than 500mph. Experienced engineers have worked alongside junior team members to pass on vital skills which can be taken forward into future developments of Tempest.
Engine testing
Engineers at Rolls-Royce site in Filton, Bristol, have carried out aerodynamic engine testing, harnessing new advanced manufacturing processes to produce an engine duct which is uniquely shaped to slow the air from supersonic to sub-sonic speeds at the engine face. The intake has fewer moving parts than a traditional fighter jet design, enhancing the aircraft's stealthy design.
Simulated Flight Trials
In a first for military aircraft design, BAE Systems’ engineers have used auto coding to create safety-critical systems software in a matter of days rather than weeks. This enables rapid assessment of the flight control systems during more complex flight manoeuvres with the simulator capturing crucial data about how the jet will handle and perform, years before its first flight.
The demonstrator is an exciting once-in-a-generation opportunity providing experienced and young engineers alike a chance to contribute to an endeavour which really matters to our national defence and security.Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems Chief Executive
Transforming at pace
Development work is underway at our facility in Lancashire, supported by hundreds of companies across the UK. It is one of more than 60 technology demonstration projects ongoing across the Team Tempest partnership, spanning the full spectrum of combat air.
The development of next generation combat air systems is continuing to drive investment in people, training and processes, and through the use of digital technologies, we are improving productivity and pace of the sovereign combat air sector.