Researchers Face Tougher Hypersonic Barriers As Weapon Tests Loom

aircraft
The X-51A proved scramjets worked. Now the challenges include producing robust hypersonic weapons in quantity, as well as scaling up the technology.
Credit: U.S. Air Force
After decades of promise the age of operational hypersonic vehicles is dawning, and concepts once considered the stuff of science fiction or the fanciful prediction of military planners are about to become reality. The first generation of U.S. tactical boost-glide and air-breathing strike weapons...
Guy Norris

Guy is a Senior Editor for Aviation Week, covering technology and propulsion. He is based in Colorado Springs.

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