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U.S. Air Force Tests Rotating Detonation Engine to Enable Faster Lower-Cost Mass-Produced Missiles

The U.S. Air Force is preparing a flight demonstration of rotating detonation propulsion for future high-speed missiles designed for larger-scale production. The technology could enable longer-range air-to-surface and air-to-air weapons while reducing propulsion volume and supporting higher production rates. The Air Force Research Laboratory plans to mature the Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine-Combined Cycle from Technology Readiness Level 3 to TRL 6 and integrate it into a ground-launched flight demonstrator initially accelerated by a sounding rocket. Developed for the High-Speed Affordable Mass Munitions concept, the propulsion architecture is intended to combine high-speed flight with a compact engine that could free internal volume for additional fuel or payload, with potential applications ranging from stand-off strike weapons to long-range air-to-air missiles. Read more.

Notional air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons illustrating potential military applications of rotating detonation engine technology. (Image source: ARCTOS)

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