Engineers have made a key step forward towards developing a UK hypersonic missile with the completion of a test campaign in the USA.
The major testing program is part of efforts to deliver a hypersonic weapon technology demonstrator by 2030 through the MOD’s Team Hypersonics (UK) programme.
During the six-week test program 233 successful static test runs were carried out at the NASA Langley Research Centre in Virginia, USA. The testing involved real-time data analysis to refine design aspects and boost propulsive performance.
The trial explored several design variations, ensuring the propulsion system’s readiness for future system design updates. The engine could power a hypersonic cruise missile concept and successfully demonstrated the performance of a high-speed air-breathing engine, which enables greater ranges than a conventional rocket.
The tests spanned the full flight Mach number range from supersonic to hypersonic speeds, validating the robustness of the engine design and paving the way for future upgrades.
The joint program was led by the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) with the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and included industry partners such as UK SME Gas Dynamics.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said, “We are living in a more dangerous world and it has never been more important for us to innovate and stay ahead of our adversaries, equipping our forces with the technologies of the future. This milestone demonstrates another crucial area where we are working in lockstep with the United States to bolster our Armed Forces and strengthen our deterrence.”
Paul Hollinshead, chief executive of the Dstl said, “This milestone represents a critical advancement in the UK’s defence capabilities and reinforces our standing in the AUKUS hypersonic weapon development collaboration. The success of these tests highlights the UK’s commitment to technological leadership and innovation in this crucial area.”
