DARPA, AFRL, Lockheed Martin and Aerojet Rocketdyne Team's Second Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept Launched from B-52 Accomplishes All Test Objectives

Rhea-AI Summary

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), in collaboration with Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and Aerojet Rocketdyne (NYSE: AJRD), successfully completed the second flight test of the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) on January 30, 2023. The HAWC system, launched from a B-52, reached speeds exceeding Mach 5, traveling over 300 nautical miles at altitudes above 60,000 feet. This test demonstrated advanced manufacturing techniques aimed at improving affordability and reliability for future hypersonic solutions. The collaboration underscores Lockheed Martin's long-standing investment in hypersonic technologies, crucial for national defense.

Positive

• Successful completion of the second HAWC flight test, achieving objectives.
• Demonstrated the capability of the HAWC system to exceed Mach 5, enhancing defense capabilities.
• Focus on affordability and reliability through advanced manufacturing technologies.

Negative

• None.

DARPA's Latest HAWC Flight Test Demonstrates Mature, Affordable Hypersonic Systems Design and Manufacturing Techniques

PALMDALE, Calif., Jan. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and Aerojet Rocketdyne (NYSE: AJRD) team accomplished their primary objectives during its second Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) flight test doubling the amount of scramjet powered vehicle data.

Launching from a B-52, the HAWC system's first stage boosted it to the targeted engine ignition envelope, where the Aerojet Rocketdyne scramjet engine fired and accelerated the system to speeds in excess of Mach 5. The system performed as predicted travelling more than 300 nautical miles and reaching altitudes above 60,000 feet. 

"Affordability and reliability are essential as we work to develop operational hypersonic solutions," said John Clark, vice president and general manager Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^®. "Both of our HAWC flight tests launched from an operational aircraft and matched performance models and predictions to aid affordable, rapid development of future hypersonic weapons."

The Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and Aerojet Rocketdyne team worked together to progress low-cost advanced manufacturing technologies, prioritizing extreme durability to vastly reduce piece and part cost. Through the purposeful integration of digital technologies throughout the design, test, and manufacturing process, the team validated that hypersonic systems can be produced affordably at the rates required to meet the urgent national need.

Lockheed Martin's Background in Hypersonic Systems
Lockheed Martin's played a significant role in the research, development and demonstration of hypersonic technologies for close to 60 years. The corporation made significant investments in the development of critical hypersonic technologies needed to enable operational systems to help the U.S. and its allies counter rapidly emerging threats.

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

Please follow @LMNews on Twitter for the latest announcements and news across the corporation.

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

FAQ

What were the results of the HAWC flight test conducted by DARPA and Lockheed Martin?

The HAWC flight test on January 30, 2023, successfully demonstrated speeds exceeding Mach 5 and traveled over 300 nautical miles.

Which companies are involved in the HAWC hypersonic project?

The HAWC project involves DARPA, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), and Aerojet Rocketdyne (NYSE: AJRD).

How does the HAWC flight test impact the future of hypersonic weapon development?

The successful flight test highlights advancements in affordability and reliability for hypersonic systems, crucial for operational readiness.