BOSTON - Spike Aerospace is evaluating several possible engine options for its new S-512 Supersonic Jet. The company is currently working with two engine manufacturers, and is in the early stages of discussion with a third engine supplier.

Spike and the engine manufacturers are identifying existing engines that can be modified to meet the requirements of the S-512. Spike CEO Vik Kachoria said, "There are several engines that are very close to what we need for the Spike Supersonic Jet. As we work with the engine suppliers, we will have a better understanding of which one will meet requirements the best and the modifications that are required."

As part of the evaluation process, Spike intends to work with the engine suppliers to explore options for minimizing emissions and engine noise while maximizing fuel efficiency. The studies will also look into the impact of private and commercial operation on the operating costs of the engines.

Spike said that the engine evaluation will take six months to one year to complete, and will likely result in an announcement of an engine supplier.

Spike is looking for low to medium bypass ratio engines with approximately 20,000 pounds of sea-level thrust. The company noted that modifications to such engines would likely be needed, It added that modifying an existing engine would likely take three to five years, compared to development of a new engine, which typically takes 10+ years.

Based in Boston, Spike Aerospace was launched in 2013, and leads a collaboration of aerospace firms aiming to develop a supersonic business jet. A team of more than 40 aerospace engineers are designing and developing the S-512. Spike said that aerospace firms such as Aernnova, Quartus Engineering, and Siemens are providing their expertise in various elements of the aircraft's design, engineering, manufacturing, and testing.

Source: Spike Aerospace