The U.K. Defence Science and Technology Laboratory has completed testing the capability of several designs for a hypersonic’s future propulsion system. Done in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Britain’s Hypersonic Weapons Programme aims to equip warfighters with hypersonic weapon technology by 2030, providing them with an operational advantage.
“This milestone represents a critical advancement in the U.K.’s defense capabilities and reinforces our standing in the AUKUS hypersonic weapon development collaboration,” said Dstl Chief Executive Paul Hollinshead.
The two agencies ran 233 tests, each at a wide range of hypersonic speeds. The trials, which were held over six weeks, explored the performance of engines to ensure their readiness for future system upgrades. The component plays a vital role in hypersonics, enabling the technology to deliver capabilities greater than a conventional rocket.
British Defense Secretary John Healey emphasized the importance of the effort amid growing global instability. “This milestone moment in hypersonics research, supported by British scientists and British small businesses, demonstrates another crucial area where we are working in lockstep with the United States to bolster our armed forces and strengthen our deterrence,” he said.
The trial aligns with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Plan for Change, which has national security among its top priorities. It also follows the premier’s recent announcement to increase the nation’s defense spending in 2025.