Call for Hybrid-Electric Propulsion for SMR Aircraft

The call focuses on advancing hybrid-electric propulsion technologies for ultra-efficient SMR aircraft through ground-based demonstrations aimed at reducing emissions and enabling future aviation innovation.

The primary focus areas of this topic include the development and demonstration of hybrid-electric propulsion architectures, integration of hybrid-electric sub-systems into ducted or unducted engines, achieving Technology Readiness Level 5 through ground demonstrations, targeting at least 5% reduction in CO2 emissions at the aircraft level, and establishing a clear roadmap toward TRL6 by 2030 to support a future product launch aligned with entry into service by 2035.

This funding opportunity supports the advancement of innovative propulsion systems designed to enhance the efficiency of SMR aircraft. The emphasis is placed on demonstrating hybrid-electric configurations in realistic ground-based environments to validate their performance and environmental benefits. By focusing on subsystem integration within different engine configurations, the initiative aims to provide practical insights into how such technologies can be scaled for future aviation use.

The project is expected to contribute significantly to emission reduction goals by ensuring that hybrid-electric propulsion architectures deliver measurable improvements at the aircraft level. Achieving at least a 5% reduction in CO2 emissions is a key benchmark, reflecting the broader objective of making aviation more sustainable through technological innovation.

This progression is essential for preparing these technologies for eventual commercialization, with a targeted entry into service by 2035. The structured pathway ensures that research outcomes are aligned with long-term industry deployment goals.

The total funding allocated for this topic is €329,500,000.00, reflecting the scale and importance of the initiative within the broader research and innovation framework.