Abstract: A method includes operating an engine system including a plurality of cylinders, a plurality of fuel injectors configured to provide fuel the plurality of cylinders, a compression braking system configured to selectably brake at least a first set of the plurality of cylinders, and an exhaust aftertreatment system including at least one catalyst. The method includes determining a condition for brake-fuel operation and, in response to the act of determining, operating the engine in a brake-fuel mode wherein the compression brake is actuated to provide compression braking of the first set of the plurality of cylinders and a second set of the plurality of cylinders receives and combust fuel provided from respective ones of the plurality of fuel injectors.