Collins Aerospace, a division of RTX, has announced that its Enhanced Power and Cooling System (EPACS) is now prepared for integration into aircraft, marking a significant advancement in thermal management for military platforms. EPACS is designed to more than double the current cooling capacity of the F-35 fighter jet, addressing the increasing thermal demands of modern avionics and mission systems.
Henry Brooks, president of Power & Controls at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “The F-35 is a mainstay of allied forces around the world. In order to modernize the platform with advanced systems to counter emerging threats, a significantly enhanced cooling capability is required.” He further noted that EPACS’s efficient thermodynamic cycle can deliver the increased cooling necessary to extend the aircraft’s operational life.
Recent demonstrations have showcased EPACS’s ability to provide 80 kilowatts of cooling capacity across various operating conditions, more than doubling the F-35’s existing capacity. This enhancement is crucial for supporting planned upgrades and ensuring the aircraft meets evolving mission requirements.
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The Government Accountability Office has previously reported that the F-35’s current power and thermal management system is overtasked, leading to increased engine wear and higher lifecycle costs. EPACS aims to mitigate these issues by offering a more efficient and robust cooling solution, compatible with all three variants of the F-35 platform.
This development underscores Collins Aerospace‘s commitment to advancing aerospace technology and supporting the operational effectiveness of modern military aircraft.