Mach 7 hypersonic aircraft could take off next year

The hypersonic aircraft developed by Hypersonix Launch Systems is approaching its first autonomous test flight under the US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) program.

Dart AE's supersonic aircraft design. (Photo: Cosmic Magazine).

The Dart AE high-speed test aircraft is being developed by Australian company Hypersonix Launch Systems under a contract with DIU. The DART AE is a technology demonstration prototype, measuring 3m long and weighing 300kg, and can reach speeds of Mach 7 (8,643km/h), Space reported on June 11. The vehicle has a range of 1,000km.

The DART AE uses the world's first fully 3D printed airframe made from high-temperature alloys. The aircraft uses Hypersonix's fifth-generation Spartan ramjet engine, providing high performance. The DART AE can be launched from an unmanned research rocket, saving costs and increasing mission flexibility.

DART AE could be ready for flight as early as this summer as part of the U.S. government's push to accelerate hypersonic flight testing. Under the U.S. Department of Defense, DIU is focused on accelerating the application of commercial technology to address the operational challenges of flying at ultra-high speeds.

The U.S. government is pursuing and developing hypersonic defense programs. DIU is implementing many projects with high test capabilities, providing opportunities for commercial companies to develop low-cost, reusable test vehicles, thereby reducing pressure on the Department of Defense.