The core technology revolves around Turbine Based Combined Cycle (TBCC) propulsion systems, which integrate turbine engines for low-to-mid speeds with airbreathing components or hypersonic mach 5+ speeds.

Engine Architecture and Subsystems: Development of a complete HMGT engine core, including high-temperature materials for turbine blades, advanced cooling systems, and variable-geometry inlets to handle extreme airflow and heat loads (up to thousands of degrees Fahrenheit).

Performance Metrics and Simulation: Creation of steady-state and transient thermodynamic cycle models using tools like Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS) to predict efficiency, thrust-to-weight ratios, and fuel consumption.

Testing and Maturation Roadmap: Subsystem/component rig tests, ground-based engine demonstrations, and a technology roadmap to mature components like compressors, combustors, and nozzles. The design emphasizes reusability, with ground test facilities available for full-scale evaluation, though flight testing on X-plane prototypes is planned for later phases.

Innovations: Emphasis on throttleable, evasive-capable engines for strikes/ISR, with potential for integration into aircraft like those in DARPA's Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) lineage.

The program excludes non-airbreathing systems (rockets) and prioritizes holistic engine concepts over isolated subsystems.

Phase 1 is funded at approximately $40 million total:
Phase 1A: ~$10 million.
Phase 1B: ~$30 million (additional).