The HON1600: A Compact Powerhouse for Tactical and Unmanned Aircraft

Honeywell Aerospace Technologies recently introduced its HON1600, a compact but powerful engine well-suited for tactical collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) and unmanned aircraft systems (UASs). The small-thrust-class engine was unveiled at the Air, Space & Cyber Conference (Washington, DC, September 22-24, 2025) run by the Air & Space Forces Association.

The engine supports high-altitude capabilities to 40,000 ft. with G-level performance (see image above). The CCA program developed by the U.S. Air Force fosters the creation of autonomous manned-unmanned aircraft.

The HON1600 engine provides the performance needed to transform small-craft designs to the manufacturing stage quickly and cost-effectively. It takes advantage of materials that can be additively manufactured, such as by 3D printing, and produced via high-volume manufacturing methods. 

Dave Marinick, president of Engines and Power Systems for Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, explained the growing needs for compact uncrewed tactical aircraft engines: “We’ve designed this engine to meet the new generation of CCA and UAS platforms that require unprecedented performance to keep pace with mission demands.”

He added, “Our propulsion system is based on proven and tested technology in use today, plus the latest advancements in digital modeling and manufacturing, to enable a cost-effective and efficient solution for military operators.”

The engine supports uncrewed aircraft requiring 800- to 1600 lb.-force thrust using a scalable architecture that can provide additional thrust as needed. The engine was developed with the aid of digital modeling to speed modifications and added features as well as integrated into desired airframes. It's also designed to handle long-term storage without degradation of performance to maintain critical-mission readiness.