Astronics Corporation, a supplier of advanced technologies and products to the global aerospace, defense, and other mission-critical industries, has been selected to supply the Frequency Converter Unit (FCU) for the NASA and BoeingTransonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) X-66A demonstrator aircraft.
This system will support the X-66A’s advanced electrical power architecture. It is part of NASA’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) program, which aims to accelerate the development of next-generation, lower-emission aircraft.
The Astronics FCU converts the aircraft’s 115VAC, 3-phase variable-frequency generator output into a constant 115VAC, 3-phase, 400Hz power supply for the aircraft’s main power buses. This conversion enables the use of legacy onboard systems and loads that are qualified to 400Hz constant-frequency power.
The X-66A will be the first X-plane specifically developed to support the U.S. goal of achieving net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. NASA selected Boeing to lead the development and flight testing of the X-66A under the SFD program in January 2023. The demonstrator will be based on a modified MD-90 platform, incorporating a high aspect ratio Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design. The new wing structure—featuring thin, extended-span wings with aerodynamic bracing—aims to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency by up to 30% compared to conventional single-aisle aircraft.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is developing this first-of-its-kind demonstrator aircraft under its Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) program. The U.S. Air Force designated the aircraft as the X-66A in June 2023. It is the first X-plane developed to support net-zero emissions goals under the U.S. Aviation Climate Action Plan.
X-planes serve as experimental platforms for evaluating innovative configurations and technologies that may influence future aircraft design. The demo aircraft is expected to take its first flight in 2028 from NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base, with potential entry into service anticipated in the mid-2030s.
The demonstrator aircraft will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines mounted under newly designed truss-braced wings. Collins Aerospace supplies the engine nacelles, which incorporate lightweight composite and metallic materials. Additional components provided by Collins include heat exchangers, air turbine starters, integrated fuel pump systems, and electronic engine controls. The propulsion system is designed to operate with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The project is jointly funded, with NASA contributing $425 million through the SFD Space Act Agreement, and Boeing and its industry partners contributing $725 million toward development and testing.
Astronics will collaborate with Boeing and NASA to support ground and flight testing. “Built on Astronics’ proven technology platform, the Frequency Converter Unit offers unparalleled efficiency and reliability, tailored to meet the unique demands of this groundbreaking aviation project. Being part of this collaboration with Boeing and NASA is an honor. We believe our advanced frequency conversion technology will play a critical role in the successful testing and operation of the X-66 demonstrator, helping to advance the goal of more sustainable aviation,” said Jon Neal, President of Astronics AES.
Astronics is a long-term supplier of electrical power system products to Boeing in both the commercial and defense markets. The X-66A program marks a significant milestone in the aviation industry’s pursuit of sustainability, highlighting innovative technologies that support net-zero emissions.
The SFD program is a key part of NASA’s Integrated Aviation Systems Program and the broader Sustainable Flight National Partnership. Technologies validated through the X-66A, such as aerodynamics, materials, and power systems, are intended to inform future aircraft design with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.
About Astronics Corporation
Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO) designs and manufactures advanced technologies for the aerospace, defense, and mission-critical industries. Its portfolio includes power, connectivity, lighting, interiors, and test systems, serving airframe manufacturers, airlines, and military organizations globally.
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Source: Astronics Corporation (Image Courtesy of NASA)
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