DHK2L50 Engine
DHK2L50
2-stroke, normally aspirated compression-ignition aviation engine
The DeltaHawk L50 represents a new class of U.S. design and built, heavy-fuel (Jet-A, JP-5, JP-8) propulsion systems designed for scalable unmanned operations. Purpose-built as a low-cost, attritable engine, the L50 enables affordable mass for autonomous systems, including expendable UAS and long-range strike platforms.
- 2-stroke, normally aspirated compression-ignition architecture delivering high power density in a compact form fact
- Multi-fuel capability, including Jet-A, JP-5, and JP-8, enabling logistics alignment across military operations
- Simplified mechanical design with minimal electronics, increasing reliability and reducing system complexity
- Lightweight and compact, optimized for small unmanned and attritable systems
Designed for scalable production and high-volume deployment
- Purpose-built for low-cost, attritable applications, enabling affordable mass in autonomous systems
- High-efficiency operation supporting extended range and mission endurance
- Robust combustion architecture tolerant to variable fuel quality
- Integration-ready design adaptable to a wide range of unmanned platforms and mission profiles
- U.S. design and built solution supporting domestic supply chain resilience
- Power class: 50 hp
- Engine type: 2-cylinder, 2-stroke compression-ignition
- Fuel compatibility: Jet-A, Jet-A1, JP-5, JP-8, and approved heavy fuels
- Cooling system: Liquid-cooled
- Induction: naturally aspirated, pressurized crankcase architecture for simplicity
- Configuration: Compact, modular design for flexible integration
- Target applications: Group 3-4 UAS, attritable systems, long-range strike platforms, advanced & modular systems
- Compatible with standard aviation heavy fuel infrastructure
- Designed for integration with existing and emerging unmanned airframe architectures
- Minimal support equipment required for operation and deployment
- Suitable for expeditionary and distributed operational environments
- Scalable manufacturing aligned with high-rate production requirements
Engine Performance – Sea Level
- Maximum continuous power of approximately 50 hp at 2,600 RPM
- Maintains strong power output through 3,000 RPM without additional mechanical boosting
- Capable of extended operating range up to 3,000 NM
- Optimized for consistent performance and durability in high-demand mission profiles
Engine Performance – In Flight
- Delivers approximately 50 hp up to 3,400 ft MSL without additional boosting
- Mechanical boosting options available to extend altitude performance and power band
- Optimized for low-altitude unmanned operations and mission-specific profiles
- Designed to support applications requiring reliable power in constrained or contested environments
Indirect Injection System
DeltaHawk’s indirect injection architecture provides a robust and fuel-flexible combustion solution optimized for modern unmanned systems. The pre-chamber design enables stable, efficient combustion across a wide range of heavy fuels and fuel qualities, supporting reliable operation in diverse and austere environments.
This approach enhances durability, reduces sensitivity to fuel variability, and enables consistent performance in high-demand mission profiles, making it well suited for lightweight, high-power UAS and scalable autonomous platforms.