In the UK and the US, engineers have joined forces to develop a radically new hybrid engine that has the potential to take commercial supersonic flight to an entirely new level. The project, called Duality, is being developed by Helix of Milton Keynes and California-based Astro Mechanica. Their goal is to make flights at speeds exceeding the speed of sound not only faster, but also economically viable for the mass market.
Unlike conventional jet engines, the new powertrain combines a turbogenerator with several high-energy-density electric motors. This architecture separates the operation of the compressor and the fan, opening up new possibilities to optimize fuel consumption and improve overall engine efficiency.
Technologies of the Future
Duality is designed to address the main challenge of supersonic air travel—excessive fuel consumption. Engineers from Helix and Astro Mechanica have proposed using four SPX242-94 electric motors, each weighing just over 31 kilograms, yet capable of delivering up to 400 kilowatts of power. This enables the engine to handle the extreme demands of speeds up to 3,600 kilometers per hour.
The hybrid system allows switching between different operating modes: at subsonic speeds, the engine functions as a turbofan; at low supersonic speeds, as a turbojet; and at maximum speeds, as a ramjet. This approach ensures maximum efficiency at every phase of flight, from takeoff to transoceanic crossings.
Engineering Solutions
The fourth-generation prototype uses two two-stage compressors powered by electric motors. This setup delivers high specific power while keeping the system’s weight to a minimum. Looking ahead, fifth-generation engines are planned, increasing each motor’s continuous output to 900 kilowatts and up to 950 kilowatts at peak, with rotational speeds reaching 20,000 revolutions per minute.
Helix is already developing specialized electric motors for the full-scale version of the engine, which will be installed on future Astro Mechanica supersonic aircraft. These engines are expected to deliver not only high speeds but also fuel efficiency, a critical factor for commercial operations.
Potential for Aviation
Astro Mechanica is also working on its own supersonic airliner capable of transpacific flights. While specific details about the plane’s size and technical characteristics remain confidential, published renderings have already generated strong interest among industry experts and potential customers.
A new powerplant promises to revolutionize long-haul commercial flights. If the project is implemented, passengers will be able to travel from Europe to America in just a few hours, and ticket prices will become more affordable thanks to reduced operating costs.
The hybrid revolution
The shift toward hybrid-electric engines in aviation could become one of the key trends of the coming years. In addition to improving fuel efficiency, these systems help lower emissions and reduce noise levels—especially important for modern megacities and international airports.
Engineers point out that hybrid architecture opens new horizons for designing the aircraft of the future. The ability to flexibly control engine modes makes supersonic flights not only possible, but also environmentally safe.
If you didn’t know, Astro Mechanica is an American company specializing in the development of innovative aviation technologies and the creation of advanced aircraft. Helix is a British manufacturer of high-tech electric motors and power units for aviation and transport. Both companies are actively collaborating with leading global universities and research centers, and their developments have repeatedly been the subject of discussion at international exhibitions and forums.
