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Destinus wins €27-MM grant to expand H2 propulsion capabilities

Destinus has been awarded grants for two projects worth a total of €26.7 MM by the Spanish Government to expand H2 propulsion capabilities. These grants were awarded as a part of Spain’s plan to make the country a world leader in producing renewable H2 and developing H2-based mobility solutions. The Spanish government invests heavily in developing H2 propulsion as part of its economic resilience and transformation plan through strategic projects funded by the European Commission’s Next Generation funds.

A €12-MM grant will go toward demonstrating flights powered by H2 as a part of a program by the Spanish Ministry of Science. The Center for Technological and Industrial Development, the body that oversees the Ministry’s program, has selected the project as a strategic initiative within its Aeronautical Technology Plan. Together with ITPAero, a Spanish engine manufacturer, H2 engine testing facilities will be developed and H2 combustion research will be showcased with the direct support and collaboration of INTA (Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial).

The remaining €14.7-MM grant will be used to demonstrate the feasibility of supersonic flight with H2. It is noteworthy that while the intensity of the aid varies from company to company, Destinus received the highest aid due to its SME start-up character.

The participation in these two programs enables Destinus to continue working toward becoming a major player in the H2 propulsion industry. The company is testing a gaseous H2 post-combustion jet engine (afterburner) while working to advance other engine technologies using cryogenic fuels such as liquid H2. These technologies will undergo extensive ground testing over the coming year and be integrated onboard the next supersonic prototype, Destinus-3, in 2024.