Honeywell has secured a prototype design contract from the U.S. Air Force for its new SkyShot 1600 engine, intended for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) market. The engine, initially announced as the HON1600, can support thrust levels between 800 and 2,800 pounds, and is configurable as either a turbojet or turbofan with scalable power.
The contract was announced at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium in Colorado, where Honeywell highlighted that the engine is designed for high-altitude operations up to 40,000 feet and high G maneuvering capabilities. Limited details have been released, but a conceptual design depicts an 18-blade wide-chord fan in its turbofan configuration.
Development and Capabilities
Honeywell demonstrated a core engine with rated thrust in 2025 and is now expanding its power range, moving beyond the initial 800-1,600 pounds. The company plans to leverage its existing large-scale production experience, gained from its auxiliary power units, to support the CCA initiative.
"Honeywell aims to leverage its manufacturing and supply chain expertise to meet the future needs of the U.S. Air Force for small, highly maneuverable engines," said Guy Norris, senior editor at Aviation Week.
This development underscores Honeywell's commitment to advancing small, efficient propulsion systems for next-generation aircraft within the evolving defense landscape.
