The discussion revolves around the recent failure of a hypersonic test flight conducted by the US Air Force, specifically focusing on the X-51 Waverider. Participants explore the implications of this failure, the history of previous tests, and the future of hypersonic technology, including potential military applications and budget considerations. The conversation includes technical aspects, speculative future developments, and comparisons with other aerospace programs.
Participants express a range of views, with no clear consensus on the implications of the test failures or the future of the X-51 program. Some believe the program should continue, while others question its viability and cost-effectiveness.
Participants mention the complexity of the technology and the potential for future developments, but there are unresolved questions about the cost-effectiveness of the tests and the specific military applications of hypersonic technology.
This discussion may be of interest to aerospace engineers, military strategists, and individuals following advancements in hypersonic technology and its implications for future flight and defense systems.
boneh3ad said:On top of that, there are no current SAM systems available to hit a target moving at those speeds. I am sure they could try and retool a Patriot to do the job, but hitting an air-breathing, maneuverable vehicle like a cruise missile moving at those speeds is significantly harder than a re-entry vehicle on a ballistic trajectory. In essence, such a weapon gives the military fielding it the ability to strike anywhere in the world with about 2 hours notice assuming they could put enough fuel on board without being anywhere near as provocative as launching an ICBM.
Except it spiraled out of control as a result of a defective fin. That isn't particularly useful, especially because the particular control problem is already solved considering it worked several times before.