Should probably be WS-15 now, new core architecture and all.
J-20 5th Gen Fighter Thread VIII
- Thread starter Blitzo
- Start date
Decent chance it could be a new core too.
Yes it could be.
I haven't seen that paper, what's the name? Please share if you can.
However, I have read this paper in 2013 基于常规涡扇发动机发展变循环发动机的研究. It can be downloaded from
It says a VCE demonstrator modified from WS-10 was tested already in 2013 or earlier.
It is worth to note that core of existing turbofan is not what should be in a true VCE, be it WS-10 or WS-15. They are only used for verification of concept. A prototype of VCE has its own purpusfully designed new core. My guess is that the core will be smaller than its conventional counterpart.
It is less likely that they did another proof of concept test with WS-15 core in 2018 basically repeating what has already been done in 2013 with WS-10 core. It is a lot likely that 2018 test is a prototype with its own core.
unfortunately there is no research paper. even if available i don't have access.
here is the Screenshot of an article published in China Science and Technology Awards in June 2018. chief designer won the first prize. so they did mentioned his accomplishment.
and thanks for this article.
it means 2018 was the proper ACE demonstrator with new core.
i just did a guess, AECC Shenyang probably used existing core. but 2013 test indicate this time they run the first demonstrator with new core.. interesting