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Advanced / Transformational Technology

AFRL Test Sets New Record for Hypersonic Engine Thrust

By Vivienne Machi

Tuesday, August 6th, 2019

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AFRL Test Sets New Record for Hypersonic Engine Thrust

Hypersonic vehicles operate at extreme speeds and high altitudes. Northrop Grumman and Raytheon are teaming to accelerate air-breathing hypersonic vehicle development. (Image: Northrop Grumman)

The Air Force said Aug. 5 that it recently set a record for the highest thrust produced by an air-breathing hypersonic engine in service history during a nine-month testing period. The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and Air Force Test Center achieved over 13,000 pounds of thrust from an 18-foot-long Northrop Grumman [NOC]-built scramjet engine during tests at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee. The engine successfully lasted for 30 minutes-worth of accumulated combustion time over those nine test months. “After…

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