Following a successful test flight, Stratolaunch is preparing for its next mission to reach hypersonic speeds. The test flight hit all primary objectives on March 9, taking off from Mojave Air and Space Port in California. The first powered Talon-A vehicle got close to Mach 5, demonstrating design validity. The company plans a second mission in the second half of the year to push envelope further by landing the aircraft on a runway.
The successful Talon-A test campaign has implications for the Defense Department’s hypersonic efforts, focusing on fielding advanced weapons against similar systems. Talon-A provided data to DoD customers, including supporting the SkyRange airborne hypersonic test capability. Strategic partnership with MACH-TB program will advance hypersonic technologies in future missions.
Stratolaunch is ensuring its carrier vehicle Roc is prepared for future missions, with FAA inspections to validate airworthiness. The aircraft is becoming a national asset, demonstrating reliability for mission accomplishment. Preparations are also underway for a Boeing 747 to support classified testing before flying Talon A missions, starting in the fourth quarter of the year.
