Department of Defense Ramps Up Hypersonic Testing

The U.S. government continues to ramp up its hypersonic capabilities. According to Ellen Lord, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, "we are continuing on an accelerated path to develop field, land, sea, and air-launched hypersonic weapons.” With China’s aggressive approach to hypersonic weaponry—and Russia’s focus on developing hypersonic nuclear strike weapons—the appropriate U.S. response is critical to national security. At the moment, the U.S. is “largely defenseless against such weapons.” But that’s about to change.As the United States accelerates its hypersonic testing, it’s important to test each hypersonic projectile. By creating simulations at extreme temperatures, engineers are able to properly assess the risk associated with hypersonic flight for each projectile. After all, robust hypersonic response to international threats is reliant up rigorous testing.NTS offers a variety of test options, which range from aerodynamic heating to dual vibration systems to simulate hypersonic flight. Key services include:

• Thermal exposure testing up to 4,000°F
• Dual vibration testing up to 80,000 force pounds
• High mass flow of hot air testing
• Mixed environments and dynamics
• Material coupon testing and full scale testing
• Variable air pressure environments

Contact us today—and let’s put you on the fast track for simulating hypersonic flight.Explore Hypersonic Testing