Think fast
Posted : Monday Sep 22, 2008 5:51:15 EDT
Under a 2004 contract with the Defense Advanced Research Projects agency, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works has worked on a series of Hypersonic Technology Vehicles, including plans for the HTV-3X, the company’s Blackswift concept:
* HTV-1 — A so-called “wave-riding” space re-entry vehicle, shaped like a flattened ellipse, was shelved because tests showed that protective systems debonded from the vehicle upon re-entry. “Wave-riding” refers to a craft’s ability to ride its own hypersonic shock wave as it flies, by using the high lift-to-drag ratio created by its sleek shape.
* HTV-2 — A wave rider with sharp leading edges akin to those of high-performance aircraft. Lockheed Martin Skunk Works expects to fly two of these craft in 2009. Advocates want a version for prompt global strike capabilities. It would carry conventional warheads atop intercontinental ballistic missile boosters.
* HTV-3 — A wave rider that did not get far because of perceived overlap with NASA’s X-43A hypersonic demonstrator, a subscale, scramjet-powered aircraft NASA tested in 2004. The X-43A’s engine ran for 10 seconds at a speed close to Mach 10.
* HTV-3X — Lockheed Martin’s proposed Blackswift demonstrator. Work began when Lockheed won a Falcon program competition in 2004 over Boeing.
Leave a Comment
Most Viewed Stories
- Staff sgt. offered TV tryout after viral video
- Space-A planning makes its way to Facebook
- Four AFSCs added to restricted list, three cut
- Promotion rates offer good news for most ranks
- Wolfenbarger tapped to lead Materiel Command
- Nellis airman killed in motorcycle crash
- Air Force camp to be named for JTAC airman
- Judge upholds ex-Dover airman’s death sentence
- Wolfenbarger tapped to lead Materiel Command
- AF, firms seek UAV flights in civil air space
- AF leaders: No involuntary cuts to active force
- MoH recipient Day faces firestorm over Fla. job
Contests and Promotions
Enter our 2012 Red Carpet Contest!
Predict who will get the statues on Hollywood's big night and win a $200 Fandango Gift Card!
Click Here To Enter.
Win Tactical Night Vision Goggles!
Enter to Win the Military Times Sweepstakes!
Click Here To Enter.
Free Stickers
Click here and we'll send you a FREE AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ, VIETNAM, or DESERT STORM sticker.
Marketplace
Mil-Mall
2011 Insider's Guide To Military BenefitsThis handbook for military life includes essential information on pay and benefits, housing, education, health care and more.
Military Discounts
Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.






