US Air Force Pursues Reusable, High-Mach Uncrewed Aircraft for Future Missions
The US Air Force is advancing its development of uncrewed aircraft capable of reaching high-Mach speeds. Led by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the initiative aims to create reusable platforms for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and strike missions. This new effort focuses on air-breathing systems, likely scramjets, capable of sustained flight above Mach 5. Companies like Leidos are involved, building on experience from previous hypersonic test programs. These high-speed drones represent a significant leap beyond current subsonic drone programs, aiming for rapid response and survivability in contested environments.
Official Source: https://interestingengineering.com/military/uncrewed-aircraft-reaching-high-mach-speeds