Lockheed Martin, Airbus Picks GE Engines for LMXT Strategic Tanker

Lockheed Martin and Airbus have selected GE Aerospace's CF6-80E1 propulsion system for the U.S. Air Force’s Next-Generation Air-Refueling System, the LMXT strategic tanker.

The LMXT is Lockheed Martin's solution for the U.S. Air Force's KC-135 recapitalization plan and is built on the combat-proven design of the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT).

Production of GE's CF6 engine for the LMXT is anticipated to support more than 3,000 direct and indirect American jobs.

GE's CF6 engine first entered service in 1971. Designed specifically for the A330, the CF6-80E1 variant offers strong technological advancements over previous CF6 engines, including nearly 70,000 pounds of thrust and 15% greater fuel efficiency.

The manufacturer selection follows previous announcements that Lockheed Martin and Airbus will expand operations in Georgia, Alabama and Arkansas to support future LMXT manufacturing, assembly and configuration. The LMXT will first be produced as an A330 airliner at Airbus' U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Mobile, Alabama, before being configured for strategic tanking at the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics facility in Marietta, Georgia. Airbus will produce the LMXT's aerial refueling boom system in western Arkansas.

The LMXT features a fully certified automatic air-to-air refueling (A3R) boom, Enhanced Vision System and integrated JADC2 suite — key differentiators in operational theaters like the Indo-Pacific. The MRTT currently refuels fighter, transport and maritime patrol aircraft for the U.S. and allied partners.