RTX Showcases Integrated Aerospace and Defense Innovations at Dubai Airshow

RTX Sets the Stage at Dubai Airshow 2025 with Integrated Defense and Aerospace Innovations

The Dubai Airshow stands as a critical global crossroads for the aerospace and defense industries, a place where multi-billion-dollar deals are struck and the future of flight is put on display. At the 2025 event, scheduled for November 17-21, global leader RTX is set to make a significant statement. The company, formed from the consolidation of aerospace giants and now operating as the world’s largest aerospace and defense conglomerate, will showcase a unified portfolio that spans the spectrum from deep-space exploration to subterranean defense systems. Its presence underscores a pivotal shift in the industry: the move toward deeply integrated systems that connect the commercial and defense worlds.

For attendees at Dubai World Central, RTX’s exhibit is more than just a display of hardware; it’s a window into the future of global security and aviation. With its three powerhouse businesses, Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, the company is presenting a holistic vision. This vision addresses some of the most pressing challenges of our time, including the rise of complex aerial threats, the urgent need for more sustainable commercial aviation, and the demand for resilient, secure communications. As we will explore, RTX’s showcase is not just about individual products, but about how these technologies work together to create a safer and more connected world.

Forging the Future of Integrated Defense

In an era of rapidly evolving threats, the demand for sophisticated, multi-layered defense systems has never been higher. RTX, through its Raytheon business, is at the forefront of this evolution, demonstrating capabilities designed to detect and defeat a wide range of aerial challenges. The company’s approach is not just about building a better missile or radar but about creating a networked shield that can operate seamlessly across domains. This philosophy is central to their showcase in Dubai, where they will highlight proven systems and next-generation concepts.

The Unblinking Eye: Advanced Air and Missile Defense

The cornerstone of many nations’ air defense is Raytheon’s Patriot system, a testament to its reliability and effectiveness. Currently, this system serves as the foundation of air defense for 19 countries. However, the nature of aerial threats is changing, with the emergence of faster, more agile hypersonic missiles and stealth aircraft. To meet this challenge, RTX is developing the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS), a next-generation radar designed for the Patriot system. This advanced sensor provides 360-degree coverage, eliminating the blind spots of previous systems and offering a crucial advantage against sophisticated threats.

The continued global demand for robust air defense is evident. In a clear vote of confidence, Germany awarded Raytheon a $1.2 billion contract in July 2024 to supply additional Patriot systems. This investment highlights the system’s enduring relevance and RTX’s role as a key partner in ensuring national and international security. The LTAMDS represents the next logical step, promising to extend the operational life and capabilities of this critical defense asset for decades to come.

Countering the Swarm: The Rise of C-UAS Technology

The proliferation of small, low-cost unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, has introduced a new and complex threat to both military and civilian environments. These systems can be used for surveillance, reconnaissance, or direct attack, often in swarms that can overwhelm traditional defenses. RTX has developed a multi-layered solution to this problem with its Low, slow, small-unmanned aircraft Integrated Defense System (LIDS). This system has been rigorously tested and deployed by the U.S. Army, proving its mettle in real-world conditions.

The effectiveness of LIDS lies in its integrated design. It combines the Ku-band Radio Frequency Sensor (KuRFS) for comprehensive 360-degree detection with the Coyote® effector. The Coyote is a low-cost, highly agile missile capable of intercepting and defeating individual drones as well as coordinated swarms. The U.S. Army’s continued investment, including a $237 million contracts in November 2023 for operations in the U.S. Central Command, validates the system’s performance and reliability.

“As the threat of unmanned systems continues to grow, the performance and reliability of a complete C-UAS system is critical, and we remain committed to the continuous improvement of these systems to provide our customers with an effective solution to stay ahead of the threat.”, Tom Laliberty, president of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon.

Powering the Next Generation of Flight

While securing the skies is a core focus, RTX is equally committed to advancing the technology that powers the aircraft within them. Through its Pratt & Whitney division, the company is a world leader in propulsion, developing engines that push the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and sustainability for both military and commercial applications. The innovations on display at the Dubai Airshow will offer a glimpse into the future of air power and commercial travel.

Maintaining Air Superiority with Adaptive Propulsion

For future fighter jets, the engine is as critical as the airframe and avionics. Pratt & Whitney is developing the Next-Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) system for the U.S. Air Force, a revolutionary engine designed to provide a step-change in survivability and fuel efficiency. This adaptive technology can reconfigure itself in-flight to optimize for different conditions, whether that means maximizing thrust for combat maneuvers or extending range for long-duration missions. In February 2024, the NGAP program successfully completed a critical design review, marking a major milestone in its development.

Beyond sixth-generation fighters, Pratt & Whitney is also innovating at the smaller scale. In September 2025, the company announced the development of a new, scalable family of small engines. These powerplants are designed to propel the next generation of munitions and Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs), the autonomous drones designed to fly alongside crewed fighters. This broad portfolio demonstrates a comprehensive strategy to power every aspect of future air warfare.

“This technology is critical to maintaining air superiority, which is why Pratt & Whitney has made significant investments in research and development and advanced manufacturing. Continued government funding for sixth-generation propulsion development must remain a high priority to support critical platform milestones and warfighter readiness.”, Jill Albertelli, president of Pratt & Whitney’s Military Engines business.

Driving Efficiency in Commercial Aviation

On the commercial side, the push for sustainability is paramount. Pratt & Whitney’s GTF™ engine is already making a significant impact, offering up to a 20% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous-generation engines. This has translated into lower operational costs for airlines and a reduced environmental footprint. The GTF engine family powers some of the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft, making it a key technology in the drive toward greener aviation.

Looking ahead, RTX is exploring even more advanced concepts. In June 2025, Pratt & Whitney announced a collaboration with regional aircraft manufacturer ATR to develop advanced turboprop technology. This partnerships is exploring hybrid-electric propulsion systems, which could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 30% compared to current regional aircraft. This forward-looking work is essential for meeting the industry’s ambitious goals for decarbonization and ensuring the long-term viability of air travel.

Concluding Section

RTX’s presence at the Dubai Airshow 2025 is a clear demonstration of a company shaping the future on multiple fronts. From the integrated defense systems that protect nations from hypersonic and drone threats to the next-generation engines that will power military and commercial aircraft more efficiently, the technologies on display represent a holistic approach to aerospace. The showcase highlights a commitment not only to technological superiority but also to partnership, with a strong emphasis on supporting local industry and talent in the UAE and beyond.

The innovations presented by RTX will have far-reaching implications. The advancements in missile defense and C-UAS technology will continue to redefine global security dynamics, while the progress in sustainable propulsion will be critical to the future of commercial aviation. By seamlessly integrating the capabilities of Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, RTX is positioning itself as an essential partner in navigating the complex challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, ensuring a safer and more connected world.

FAQ

Question: What is RTX?
Answer: RTX is the world’s largest aerospace and defense company by revenue, formed from the former Raytheon Technologies. It comprises three major businesses: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon.

Question: What are the key technologies RTX is showcasing at Dubai Airshow 2025?
Answer: RTX is showcasing a wide range of technologies, including integrated air and missile defense systems like Patriot and LTAMDS, Counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions like LIDS, next-generation military and commercial propulsion systems, and advanced tactical communications.

Question: What is the significance of RTX’s sponsorship of the Dubai International Air Chiefs’ Conference (DIACC)?
Answer: By sponsoring the DIACC, which is themed “Hypersonic Edge & Future Airpower,” RTX is positioning itself as a thought leader in the strategic discussions that will define the future of air dominance and defense readiness in an era of rapid technological transformation.

Sources

RTX