Powertech Launches Innovative Propulsion Systems at IDEX 2025
Officially established in February 2025 but having commenced operations in late 2023, Powertech, a new entity within EDGE dedicated to propulsion, showcased a suite of innovative propulsion systems at IDEX 2025. Among these were two newly developed piston engines, two turbojet engines, and a turbofan engine, which are poised to enhance the performance of the company’s UAVs and missile systems.
Strategic Intent and Workforce Growth
The establishment of Powertech was driven by the recognition of propulsion systems as a critical component of national sovereignty in defense capabilities. CEO Marian Lubieniecki observed, “We initiated with a compact team, and now we have expanded to approximately 50 personnel, with plans to increase to 70 by year-end.” The company is focused on rapid development and production cycles, aiming to keep pace with the fast-evolving market.
Accelerated Development and Manufacturing Strategy
- Speed Prioritization: The leadership emphasizes the necessity for swift transitions from development to production. “We need to adapt quickly to capitalize on emerging opportunities,” Lubieniecki stated.
- Access to Global Talent: One of the company’s advantages is its ability to tap into a global talent pool, facilitating accelerated project timelines.
- Outsourcing Manufacturing: While focusing on product development and assembly, Powertech has opted for outsourcing most manufacturing, allowing the company to concentrate on core competencies.
- Additive Manufacturing: Significant investments are being made in additive manufacturing technology, not just for prototyping but as a component of the production process.
The CEO noted that while the majority of initial personnel focused on R&D, Powertech is transitioning toward adding production and sales roles rapidly, underscoring their agile methodology.
Product Portfolio Overview
The flagship product introduced at the onset of 2025 is the P145i piston engine. Key specifications include:
- Six-cylinder design with a power output of 145 hp
- Displacement of 1,800 cm3
- Weight: less than 60 kg, fully equipped
- Unique fuel system allowing for separated oil and fuel tanks
- Improved combustion efficiency and reduced mass
Expanding upon the P145i, Powertech has developed two smaller models, the P80i and P10i:
- P80i: A four-cylinder engine, 1,250 cm3 displacement, approximately 32 kg with ancillaries.
- P10i: A two-cylinder model delivering 10-12 hp, weighing under 6 kg.
Although these engines are currently produced in Italy, Powertech’s focus remains sharply on UAV applications, aligning their development efforts to market demands.
Transition to Jet Engines
Powertech is also making strides in jet propulsion technology with the unveiling of two turbojet engines, the PJ120 and PJ40:
- PJ40: Maximum continuous thrust of 450 N, with an innovative thrust-specific fuel consumption under 40 g/kN.s.
- PJ120: Maximum continuous thrust up to 1,200 N, exhibiting even greater fuel efficiency at under 34 g/kN.s.
Production for these engines is anticipated to commence in Q3 of 2026, following successful bench tests.
Future Aspirations in Turbofan Development
Powertech is also progressing with its turbofan engine, the X550. This engine is characterized by substantial thrust capabilities and reduced fuel consumption:
- Thrust: maximum 4,700 N, with a structural length of 1,200 mm
- Weight: 105 kg, optimized for UAV and missile applications.
- Aimed for testing in early 2027, with potential future expansions into larger turbofans to facilitate missile propulsion.
Quality and Reliability Commitment
While aiming for cost-effectiveness, Powertech emphasizes uncompromising quality and reliability. The company aspires to achieve a balance between affordability and high performance, striving for 100% reliability in all its products.
With a comprehensive suite of piston and jet engines adaptable for unmanned platforms, Powertech positions itself as a unique contender in the defense propulsion sector.
Photos by P. Valpolini
