Abstract: This paper presents a systematic analysis of the U.S. military’s next-generation aviation equipment architecture and associated propulsion technologies, examining both current developments and future trajectories. It investigates the technical profiles and mission requirements of key programs including hypersonic strike systems, Next Generation Air Dominance, Collaborative Combat Aircraft, the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, and Future Vertical Lift platforms. The study further conducts a detailed examination of breakthrough propulsion technologies enabling these capabilities. Findings indicate that the U.S. military is employing new strategic concepts to guide the development of integrated, intelligent, high-speed, and low-observable aviation systems, while concurrently advancing propulsion technologies toward multimodality, intelligent operation, and enhanced energy efficiency. Building on these observations and considering China’s national context, this paper recommends adhering to integrated top-level design, reinforcing the strategy of propulsion technology leadership, deepening civil-military integration and digital transformation, and establishing autonomous and secure industrial supply chains. These insights aim to support China’s aviation industry in achieving high-level self-reliance and technological advancement.

Key words: Aviation Systems; Aircraft Propulsion; System-of-systems Warfare; Adaptive Cycle Engine; Hypersonic Technology; Unmanned Aircraft System; Intelligentization