The high-speed test aircraft, named Dart AE, is being developed by Australian company Hypersonix Launch Systems in partnership with DIU.
Dart AE is a technology demonstrator, measuring 3 meters in length and weighing 300 kg, capable of reaching Mach 7 (8,643 km/h), as reported by Space on June 11. The vehicle has a range of 1,000 km.
Dart AE utilizes the world’s first fully 3D-printed airframe made of high-temperature-resistant alloys. The prototype aircraft features Hypersonix’s fifth-generation scramjet engine called Spartan, providing high-performance capabilities. Dart AE can be launched using unmanned rocket boosters, enabling cost savings and increased mission flexibility.
Design of the Supersonic Aircraft Dart AE. Image: Cosmic Magazine
Dart AE is expected to be ready for test flights in early summer, as part of the US government’s efforts to accelerate hypersonic flight testing.
As a part of the US Department of Defense, DIU focuses on leveraging commercial technologies to address operational challenges associated with high-speed flight.
The US government is actively pursuing and developing hypersonic defense programs.
Consequently, DIU is implementing several high-potential projects, providing opportunities for commercial companies to develop low-cost, reusable test vehicles, thereby reducing the burden on the Department of Defense.
(Source: Space)