Rotating Detonation Engine Powers Secret Tactical Missile Program

Rotating detonation engine
Rotating detonation engines are now being tested on tactical missiles.
Credit: Air Force Research Laboratory
Tests of a secret new tactical missile powered by a rotating detonation engine at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, California, appear to show evidence of significant recent advances in transforming this breakthrough concept into a practical high-speed propulsion system. 12-...
Guy Norris

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

Steve Trimble

Steve covers military aviation, missiles and space for the Aviation Week Network, based in Washington DC.

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