Reaction Engines and Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand their existing collaboration to explore additional aerospace applications for their zero-emission propulsion technology. (Earlier post.)

The MoU represents an expansion of both companies’ efforts to develop applications for their hydrogen fuel cell-based powertrain design and system integration capabilities across diverse sustainable aerospace platforms.

The agreement marks a step towards maximizing the potential of their collective expertise and delivering practical sustainable aviation solutions across a range of applications.

The announcement builds upon the close partnership between both companies which began with the UK government’s Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI)-funded Project Fresson in 2021, which focuses on the development of a zero-emissions, hydrogen fuel cell aircraft demonstrator.

Both Reaction Engines and CAeS have also received strategic equity investments from the Strategic Development Fund (SDF) and are benefiting from SDF’s active support in developing commercial applications for their technologies.

Reaction Engines has developed advanced thermal management technologies that provide a step change in performance and efficiency across a range of industries including aerospace, energy, motorsport and hypersonics. The company is supported by UK and US governments through the UK Space Agency, DARPA, US Air Force, as well as leading global industry partners.

Reaction Engines has secured equity investments from a range of industry and financial investors including BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Boeing HorizonX, Baillie Gifford, Schroders, and Strategic Development Fund.

CAeS is a UK-based aviation pioneer which is developing hydrogen propulsion system technology for aircraft, with the aim to deliver the world’s first, zero-emissions passenger aircraft solution by 2026 with the conversion to the Britten Norman Islander. Through the development of a modular architecture and proven integration capabilities, the company is able to adapt the technology for use on multiple platforms, driving the transition of the aviation industry to zero-emissions flight.