Hypersonic technology development is a significant area of research within the Department of Defense. In fact, the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense has identified hypersonics as one of 14 critical technology areas flagged for rapid technology development. AFRL recognizes the need to harness the hypersonics expertise available both domestically and globally to contend with the numerous engineering challenges associated with designing vehicles capable of sustained hypersonic flight. Stability and control, management of the thermal energy produced by hypersonic flight, and developing efficient propulsion system technologies are just a sample of the challenges that require robust engineering solutions. The presentation will highlight AFRL’s efforts to address these challenges for hypersonic systems that can be fielded today as well as the platforms desired for the future.
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