The more electric/all electric aircraft-a military fast jet perspective

Significant advantages have been claimed through the use of more electric aircraft technologies. These have stemmed from studies and work performed mainly in the USA. Significant investment in these technologies is continuing in the USA and a brief assessment of the work together with the claimed technology advantages is made. There is still much scepticism as to the actual advantages that may accrue from more electric aircraft technologies and the challenges perceived for the technology application are discussed. The all electric/more electric aircraft concepts rely on several key technologies which are discussed: affordability, low observability, performance, mass, size/volume. Claimed advantages from more electric technologies and perceived challenges are examined as well as technology issues for starter-generators, electric actuation, electric power distribution and power electronics.