A modulated flow transfer system 144 includes an annular inducer 213 configured to accelerate the fluid flow in a substantially circumferential direction in a direction of rotation of the rotor 110. The system 144 further includes a first fluid flow supply including a compressor bleed connection 142, a feed manifold 206 formed of bendable tubing, and a feed header 202 extending between the compressor bleed connection 142 and the feed manifold 206. The feed header 202 includes a modulating valve 204 configured to control an amount of fluid flow into the feed manifold 206. The system 144 also includes a flow supply tube 210 that extends between the feed manifold 206 and the inducer 213 and is couplable to at least one of the plurality of first fluid flow inlet openings 214 through a sliding piston seal 216.