The J47 turbojet engine was one of first high-performance model, developed for military aircraft by General Electric from the J35 engine, as well as it was also the first axial-flow turbojet approved for civil aviation in the United States. Its modern construction scheme features a multi-stage axial-flow compressor, rather than a centrifugal compressor like the British turbojet engine of that period. The J47 was manufactured in various series between 1948 and 1956, for a total production of over 30000 units. Over the years it underwent constant development with considerable improvements in terms of power, reliability, and time between overhauls, which was greatly increased from 15 flight hours in 1948 to 1200 in 1956. The J47 was used in various aircraft, including the North American F-86 Sabre and the Convair B-36 Peacemaker. The engine was also produced under license by FIAT for the F-86 Sabre of the Italian Air Force, becoming the first turbojet aircraft used by its aerobatic demonstration team “Frecce Tricolori” in 1961.

Technical specifications