The General Electric F404 is a low-bypass turbofan family developed for the F/A-18 Hornet and subsequently adapted to a wide range of fighters and trainers. Most versions use afterburning, while non-afterburning derivatives powered the F-117A and Singapore's A-4SU Super Skyhawk. The family's small size and modular construction supported its varied applications.[1]
Lightweight-fighter origins
The programme began with the GE15 development engine in 1969. This dual-shaft turbofan supported studies of lightweight fighters and evolved into the J101 associated with Northrop's YF-17. GE's account places the work in the context of an affordable successor to the J85-powered F-5, with the eventual F404 helping the company regain a larger position in fighter propulsion.[2]
Hornet development
The F404-GE-402 improved the performance of the F/A-18C/D through changes to turbine and afterburner materials and technology. GE describes higher power and better fuel efficiency while retaining the family's maintainability. Its published thrust class is 17,700 lbf, representing one specific branch of a family whose ratings and controls vary by installation.[1]
Single-engine derivatives
The F404-GE-102 powers the Korean T-50 family and incorporates single-engine safety features and digital control derived from the F414. The RM12, developed with Volvo Aero for the Gripen, also introduced single-engine features. India's Tejas uses the F404-GE-IN20, listed in the 19,000 lbf class and incorporating upgraded hot-section technology.[1]
Advanced training
The F404-GE-103 was selected for the Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk. GE describes this version as incorporating durability, maintenance and single-engine safety improvements for advanced pilot training. That application extends the programme beyond its original carrier-fighter requirement and demonstrates how successive derivatives retained the family while adapting it to new airframes and training missions.[3]