Latest news with #Stratolaunch
Axios
a day ago
- Business
- Axios
Jeff Thornburg: U.S. and allies jeopardized by "broken" acquisition system
The current military model for trying and buying weapons and technology is the "biggest risk" to the U.S. and its friends abroad, according to Portal Space Systems CEO Jeff Thornburg. "The allied nations, Five Eyes, AUKUS, NATO, take your pick — the acquisition process is too slow and broken. Requirements development process? Broken," he told Axios in an interview. "It's taking too long to field systems the warfighters need right now, or they needed years ago." Why he matters: Thornburg is an industry veteran. He led development of SpaceX's Raptor engine and has ties to Stratolaunch, Ursa Major and Amazon's Kuiper. Q: When you hear "future of defense" what comes to mind? A: "All things space" is the shortest answer. But, really, there is not a single land, air or sea mission that doesn't require a space asset. Space programs, the Space Force and space missions, in general, are the future of defense for the U.S. and all allied nations. Q: What's a national security trend we aren't paying enough attention to? A: Quantum encryption and decryption is not something that people are keeping an eye on. But our adversaries are. Q: What region of the world should we be watching? Why? A: The obvious one is the South China Sea, just because of China's plans for Taiwan. But that's everybody's answer. We need to be looking at the engagements in the Middle East, Ukraine and South China Sea collectively, because China is watching the U.S. response in all of these areas and making calculations. In my opinion, there's not one region. But, collectively, we need to be paying attention to all these hot spots and how they're draining our military capacity, because that's going to be an indicator to our adversaries on when they should make their move. Q: How many emails do you get a day, and how do you deal with them? A: Probably well over 100. I like this question, because it's all a game of prioritization. I have a multifaceted approach to email. Obviously, I organize them as best I can. I never delete anything because I like the metadata searches for stuff. Part of it is my assistant helping me prioritize tasks. Sometimes there's a bit of an insurance company approach here. I know what's most critical for the business every week, and that's where I focus my attention. Q: What time do you wake up? What does the morning routine look like? A: Most of the time it's 6-6:30 am. My wife and I have a small little farm outside Seattle. So I wake up, I try very hard not to look at my phone, and take care of the animals. Then grab coffee and some time to chat about the day with my wife, and then, normally, start to get into meetings any time between 8 and 9 am. That kind of starts the day.
Sustainability Times
22-06-2025
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'China in Shock': New Hypersonic Aircraft With Mach 5+ Speeds Triggers Massive Global Reaction After US Engine Breakthrough
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Ursa Major secures a $32.9 million contract to supply advanced H13 rocket engines for Stratolaunch's Talon-A. secures a $32.9 million contract to supply advanced H13 rocket engines for Stratolaunch's Talon-A. ✈️ Talon-A is a reusable hypersonic test vehicle capable of flying over Mach 5, playing a crucial role in military hypersonic technologies. is a reusable hypersonic test vehicle capable of flying over Mach 5, playing a crucial role in military hypersonic technologies. 🔧 Upgraded H13 engines offer higher thrust and longer lifespans, supporting more frequent and cost-effective hypersonic testing. 🌐 The collaboration enhances U.S. hypersonic testing infrastructure, crucial in the global race for technology superiority against countries like China and Russia. The aerospace world is buzzing with excitement over the latest developments in hypersonic technology. U.S.-based company Ursa Major has secured a $32.9 million contract to supply sixteen upgraded H13 rocket engines for Stratolaunch's Talon-A Hypersonic test vehicle. This strategic move aims to enhance the vehicle's capabilities, making it a cornerstone in the U.S.'s efforts to advance hypersonic testing. With these upgrades, the Talon-A is set to achieve greater reusability and efficiency, propelling it further into the future of aerospace technology. Talon-A to Get New Engines The Talon-A hypersonic test vehicle stands as a testament to cutting-edge aerospace innovation. Powered by the H13 engines from Ursa Major, Talon-A is a reusable hypersonic vehicle capable of traveling at speeds over Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. This vehicle is air-launched from Stratolaunch's massive carrier aircraft, known for its impressive wingspan. The Talon-A plays a crucial role as a test platform for military hypersonic technologies, a priority for the Pentagon. In May, the Talon-A successfully completed its second Mach 5+ flight test, marking a significant milestone in hypersonic research. 'With the data collected from this second flight, we are able to apply lessons learned to enhance the strength and performance of the Talon-A vehicles,' said Dr. Zachary Krevor, President and CEO of Stratolaunch. The new contract with Ursa Major aims to capitalize on these findings, enhancing propulsion systems for more robust performance. This aligns with the U.S.'s strategic focus on hypersonic testing, particularly as China and Russia continue to advance in this field. 'Trash Into Power': Scientists Create Batteries From Industrial Waste to Store Green Energy and Rewrite the Future of Sustainability More Thrust, More Speed Hypersonic testing presents numerous technical challenges and high costs, making the development of reusable platforms like the Talon-A essential. The upgraded H13 engines promise to deliver more thrust of 5,000 lbf and longer lifespans through oxygen-rich staged combustion. This is an efficient engine cycle typically reserved for large space launchers, highlighting the sophistication of Stratolaunch's technology. These engines are designed to reduce costs and increase test frequency, allowing for rapid advancements in hypersonic capabilities. The collaboration between Ursa Major and Stratolaunch is a strategic move to bolster the U.S.'s hypersonic testing infrastructure. By providing advanced, cost-effective engines, this partnership aims to accelerate the development of hypersonic weapons and defenses. This is crucial in a global landscape where speed and technology superiority are paramount. 'Bury Them Deep': Nuclear Reactors Planted One Kilometer Underground Could Deliver Cheap and Ultra-Safe Energy for Decades Strategic Importance of Hypersonic Testing The significance of this contract with Ursa Major extends beyond technological advancements. Hypersonic testing is a top priority for national defense, as it plays a pivotal role in maintaining technological superiority. Countries like China and Russia are advancing rapidly in hypersonic technology, making it imperative for the U.S. to stay ahead. The Talon-A, with its enhanced propulsion system, positions the U.S. as a leader in hypersonic research and development. Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major, emphasized the importance of this contract, stating, 'This contract directly supports U.S. hypersonic test infrastructure and the broader imperative to accelerate high-speed flight programs that deliver for national security.' The collaboration aims to provide real capabilities in the field, focusing on speed and efficiency without compromising performance. This underlines the strategic importance of hypersonic testing in global defense dynamics. 'Your Phone Is Now a Solar Panel': This Shocking New Material Instantly Converts Devices Into Power Generators The Future of Hypersonic Technology As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, the developments in hypersonic technology are set to redefine the limits of speed and efficiency. The Talon-A, equipped with the advanced H13 engines, represents the future of aerospace innovation. The collaboration between Ursa Major and Stratolaunch is a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships in advancing national defense capabilities. The focus on reusability and cost-effectiveness is critical as the U.S. seeks to maintain its edge in the global hypersonic race. As these technologies continue to develop, the potential for hypersonic vehicles in both military and civilian applications grows. The advancements seen in the Talon-A project are just the beginning, paving the way for future innovations in aerospace technology. The strides made in hypersonic technology with the Talon-A and the H13 engines mark a significant milestone in aerospace innovation. As the U.S. continues to prioritize hypersonic testing, the collaboration between Ursa Major and Stratolaunch paves the way for future advancements. How will these developments shape the future of global defense and aerospace technology? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (22)
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Ursa Major Awarded $32.9M Contract to Deliver 16 Upgraded Hadley Engines for Stratolaunch Hypersonic Test Program
Deal supports increased national flight test cadence through 2032, advancing hypersonic readiness DENVER, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ursa Major has been awarded a $32.9 million contract to develop and deliver 16 upgraded Hadley H13 engines to Stratolaunch. The multi-year program extends a series of successful flight collaborations and supports a growing operational cadence. "This contract directly supports U.S. hypersonic test infrastructure and the broader imperative to accelerate high-speed flight programs that deliver for national security," said Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major. "As the proud partner and hypersonic propulsion provider to Stratolaunch, we're focused on getting real capability into the field – faster, at scale, and without compromising performance." The Hadley H13 is a mission-upgraded variant that increases engine reusability with additional starts, driving down cost per flight while supporting new test objectives and mission profiles. Ursa Major's Hadley engines have powered multiple successful Talon-A missions, including sustained Mach 5+ flight and vehicle recovery, demonstrating the engine's performance under operational conditions. About Ursa MajorUrsa Major is an aerospace and defense company delivering flight-proven capabilities for hypersonics, solid rocket motors, in-space propulsion, and launch. Headquartered in Berthoud, Colorado, with additive manufacturing operations in Youngstown, Ohio, Ursa Major leverages advanced production techniques and flexible architectures to build systems for all domains: land, air, sea, and space. The company is revitalizing the defense industrial base for the U.S. and its allies, flying faster to accelerate delivery of critical capabilities where speed and adaptability matter most. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Ursa Major Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Need for speed? Watch this thrilling video from historic Stratolaunch Talon-A2 hypersonic flight (video)
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Stratolaunch released a new video documenting the completion of its second hypersonic flight and full recovery of its Talon-A2 autonomous vehicle, showing off the capabilities of this sleek reusable hypersonic aircraft. This successful follow-up mission, recently undertaken on March 24 of this year, follows in the wake of the Talon-A2 vehicle's initial first hypersonic flight and runway recovery back on Dec. 20, 2024. The Talon-A2 is an advanced air-launch plane lifted aloft by a gigantic dual-fuselage aircraft designed by Scaled Composites with a world-leading 385-foot (117 meters) wingspan and nicknamed "Roc." When positioned and deployed at altitude over 20,000 feet, the dart-shaped hypersonic marvel is dropped from Roc's center wing pylon before its Ursa Major Hadley rocket engine comes alive to propel it to Mach 5 and beyond. "With the data collected from this second flight, we are able to apply lessons learned to enhance the strength and performance of the Talon-A vehicles," said Dr. Zachary Krevor, President and CEO of Stratolaunch in a statement. "While the team needs to complete its data review of flight two, the first flight review confirmed the robustness of the Talon-A design while demonstrating the ability to meet the full range of performance capabilities desired by our customers." RELATED STORIES: — Stratolaunch's Talon-A2 prototype goes hypersonic after dropping from world's largest airplane (photos) — Stratolaunch launches 1st rocket-powered flight of hypersonic prototype from world's largest airplane — Stratolaunch flies world's largest airplane on 2nd test flight After a controlled altitude climb, the Talon-A2 glided back down to Earth for a silky-smooth touchdown and payload recovery at California's Vandenberg Space Force Base, as seen in this video linking Stratolaunch's vision back to the pioneering days of the U.S. Air Force and NASA's legendary X-15 rocket plane program of the late 1950s and 1960s. Both December's and March's flights packed payloads and Department of Defense experiments. These thrilling missions mark America's first return to reusable hypersonic flight testing since that manned X-15 program ended in 1968. Stratolaunch is a revolutionary air-launch enterprise founded back in 2011 by the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. Cerberus Capital Management formally purchased Stratolaunch back in 2018, transferring its headquarters from Seattle, Washington to Mohave Air and Space Port in California with an emphasis on evolving and operating world-class hypersonic aerospace craft. A second launch platform is currently being developed using a Boeing 747-400 once owned by the now-defunct Virgin Orbit and now renamed "Spirit of Mojave." This updated aircraft will provide a more convenient, compact carrier than the mighty "Roc" for future flights and testing of the next generation of Stratolaunch vehicle dubbed the Talon-A3, which should be ready to fly sometime in late 2025. Stratoluanch previously tested the single-use prototype Talon-A1 on March 9, 2024, which was not equipped with landing gear and executed a perfect ocean splashdown.
Sustainability Times
09-05-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
This U.S. Weapon Test Forced China to Sound the Alarm: Beijing Mobilizes in Face of Hypersonic Supremacy
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Stratolaunch's Talon-A achieved speeds over Mach 5, marking a milestone in reusable hypersonic flight. achieved speeds over Mach 5, marking a milestone in reusable hypersonic flight. 🌐 The MACH-TB initiative accelerates U.S. hypersonic capabilities by enabling rapid, affordable testing. accelerates U.S. hypersonic capabilities by enabling rapid, affordable testing. 🛡️ The success of the Talon-A strengthens U.S. defense against global competitors like Russia and China . and . 🔧 The project paves the way for innovations in propulsion systems and aerospace technology, impacting both military and commercial sectors. In a groundbreaking advancement for the United States' hypersonic capabilities, the Pentagon has confirmed the second successful flight of Stratolaunch's Talon-A, a reusable hypersonic vehicle. This remarkable achievement highlights the country's renewed focus on developing next-generation weapons that travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5. With the Talon-A soaring to incredible velocities, the U.S. is taking significant steps to bolster its defense capabilities and maintain a competitive edge in the global hypersonic race. This article delves into the intricacies of the Talon-A project, its significance, and its potential impact on future military technologies. The Rise of Stratolaunch: A New Era in Aerospace Stratolaunch, a California-based aerospace company, is at the forefront of hypersonic technology innovation. Their Talon-A vehicle, designed to be reusable, marks a departure from traditional single-use rockets. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective and efficient method for testing hypersonic technologies. The Talon-A is launched from the Roc carrier aircraft, the world's largest airplane with a twin fuselage, and can reach speeds over Mach 5. After its successful flight over the Pacific Ocean, it landed safely at Vandenberg Space Force Base, underscoring its reusability and reliability. The Talon-A's development is a part of the Test Resource Management Center's (TRMC) Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB) initiative. This program aims to accelerate the delivery of advanced hypersonic capabilities by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including the Department of Defense, other federal agencies, industry, and academia. By providing a platform for rapid and affordable hypersonic experiments, MACH-TB is paving the way for a new era of aerospace innovation. Milestone Achievements in Hypersonic Testing The recent test flights of the Talon-A represent significant milestones in hypersonic testing and development. The first successful flight in December 2024 went unpublicized until now, but the second test in March 2025 has garnered much attention. These tests demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of reusable hypersonic vehicles, a concept that promises to revolutionize aerospace technology. 'World Calls on China to Lead': Urgent Climate Demands Escalate Ahead of Pivotal Global Sustainability Transition Conference The data collected from these flights is invaluable. It allows engineers to refine and enhance the Talon-A's design, ensuring it meets the full range of performance capabilities desired by the military and other customers. The ability to quickly redeploy the vehicle after each test, thanks to its reusability, dramatically reduces turnaround times and costs, accelerating the pace of hypersonic development. Dr. Zachary Krevor, President and CEO of Stratolaunch, emphasized the significance of these achievements, noting the complexity of a full runway landing with prompt payload recovery. The success of these tests not only advances the Talon-A project but also strengthens the United States' position in the global hypersonic race. Implications for U.S. Defense and Global Hypersonic Race The Talon-A's successful tests come at a crucial time for the United States, as it seeks to enhance its hypersonic capabilities amid growing competition from global powers like Russia and China. Hypersonic weapons, capable of flying at speeds above Mach 5, pose a significant challenge to existing defense systems due to their speed and maneuverability. As such, developing effective hypersonic technologies is a strategic priority for the U.S. military. Scientists Create Extremely Heavy Hydrogen Isotope Using Electron Beams in a Historic First That Redefines Atomic Research The significance of these tests extends beyond national defense. They represent a technological leap that could have broader implications for aerospace innovation and commercial applications. By leading the charge in hypersonic technology, the U.S. is setting new standards in aerospace engineering and defense capabilities. Furthermore, the collaboration facilitated by the MACH-TB initiative fosters innovation and accelerates the development of hypersonic systems, ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of this critical technology area. As other nations continue to advance their hypersonic programs, the success of the Talon-A project reaffirms the U.S.'s commitment to maintaining its technological superiority. The Future of Hypersonic Technology Looking ahead, the Talon-A project is just the beginning of a new chapter in hypersonic technology. The vehicle's reusable nature and advanced capabilities provide a platform for ongoing research and development in areas such as propulsion systems, materials science, and aerodynamic design. These advancements have the potential to transform not only military applications but also commercial aerospace endeavors. 'It's Huge, and It's Been Hidden for This Whole Time': Astronomers Staggered by Discovery of Eos, a Giant Glowing Cloud in Space As U.S. defense giants like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and RTX continue to invest in hypersonic technologies, the landscape of aerospace innovation is set to change dramatically. The Talon-A's success paves the way for further exploration and development, potentially leading to breakthroughs in hypersonic travel and transportation. The strategic significance of hypersonic technology cannot be overstated. As nations vie for dominance in this field, the ability to develop and deploy reliable hypersonic systems will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global security and technological progress. The successful flights of the Talon-A mark a significant milestone in the U.S.'s pursuit of hypersonic capabilities. As the Pentagon and its partners continue to push the boundaries of aerospace technology, the implications for national defense and global innovation are profound. With the Talon-A leading the charge, what new horizons will hypersonic technology explore next? Did you like it? 4.5/5 (29)
