The J47 is the most mass-produced turbojet in history, with over 35,000 units built between 1948 and 1956. The -GE-17 variant added an afterburner to the proven 12-stage axial compressor core, giving the F-86D the thrust it needed for all-weather interception missions. Its 8-chamber combustor and single-stage turbine defined the production standard for early American turbojets .
J47-GE-17 Afterburning Configuration
The primary subject of this technical guide focuses on the General Electric J47-GE-17 engine, engineered specifically for Afterburning Turbojet applications. Below is an essential digest of this powertrain configuration.
• Afterburning J47 variant
• 7,500 lbf with afterburner
• Powered F-86D Sabre Dog
• 35,000+ J47s built
J47-GE-17 Technical Data
12-stage axial compressor; 8 combustion chambers; single-stage axial turbine; 7,500 lbf thrust at 7,950 rpm with afterburner; dry weight 1,361 kg .
The J47’s axial compressor was a deliberate choice for higher pressure ratios than centrifugal designs, and the -GE-17’s afterburner added thrust for combat emergencies at the cost of fuel consumption. The F-86D used the afterburner for rapid climb and interception, while the basic J47 powered everything from the B-47 Stratojet to the F-86 Sabre. Production ended in 1956 after 35,000+ units, making it the most-produced turbojet ever .
| Type | Afterburning turbojet |
|---|---|
| Compressor | 12-stage axial |
| Combustor | 8 chambers |
| Turbine | Single-stage axial |
| Thrust (AB) | 7,500 lbf @ 7,950 rpm |
| Weight | 1,361 kg (3,000 lb) |
| Fuel | JP-4 / Jet fuel |
Aircraft Powered by the J47-GE-17
This engine model is deployed across various operational frameworks. Here is a breakdown of the typical machine or vehicle applications using this unit:
North American F-86D Sabre Dog, Italian Fiat F-86K
Pros & Advantages
Afterburner for interception thrust; proven J47 core reliability; most-produced turbojet in history.
Cons & Disadvantages
High fuel consumption with afterburner; heavy; obsolete by late 1950s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which aircraft used the J47-GE-17?
A1: The North American F-86D Sabre Dog and Italian Fiat F-86K .
Q2: How much thrust did the J47-GE-17 produce?
A2: 7,500 lbf at 7,950 rpm with afterburner .
Q3: How many J47 engines were produced in total?
A3: More than 35,000, making it the most mass-produced turbojet in history .
12-stage axial compressor .