Raytheon has won a $63.3 million DARPA contract to further develop the Tactical Boost Glide hypersonic weapons programme.

The joint DARPA and U.S. Air Force effort includes a critical design review, a key step in fielding the technology.

For a tactical-range boost glide weapon to achieve hypersonic speeds – velocities greater than Mach 5 – “a rocket accelerates its payload to high speeds. The payload then separates from the rocket and glides unpowered to its destination,” according to the DARPA website.

“This latest contract adds to Raytheon’s growing number of hypersonic weapons programs,” said Dr. Thomas Bussing, Raytheon Advanced Missile Systems vice president.

“Raytheon is working closely with our customers to quickly field these advanced weapon systems and provide our nation’s military with the tools they need to stay ahead of the escalating threat.”

Hypersonic weapons enable forces to engage from longer ranges with shorter response times and enhanced effectiveness compared to current weapon systems.

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George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

It’s based on the Alien Craft held at Area 51.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Quite possibly….

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Except they use Anti Gravity not Rockets.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

“It ain’t over till the Fat Lady Sings”.

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago

It was over from the minute 1 as far as that film goes.

Not many movies make me want to throw up in my popcorn, that one did.

Geoffrey Roach
Geoffrey Roach
5 years ago

were you on that tour as well?

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Geoffrey Roach

Hello Geoffrey, To Whom are you Addressing your Question Mate ? I’m happy to say no, I was not on that Tour though.

Geoffrey Roach
Geoffrey Roach
5 years ago

Hello Captain,
It was your good self that I was addressing. At the time it was a jokey remark about a visitor tour of Area 51. Now I’m not so sure. Hey ho.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Geoffrey Roach

Morning Geoffrey, I thought It Was, But couldn’t really tell as this site runs out of sinc. I quite enjoyed the film despite it being Typical Cheese.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Great film! Comply.

Geoffrey Roach
Geoffrey Roach
5 years ago

Copy that.

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago

That is so what I was thinking

Chris J
5 years ago

I was just thinking exactly the same!

Rob Collinson
Rob Collinson
5 years ago

It has always been one of my favourite films – the first ever DVD I bought!!

I am too old to see this dream becoming a reality, as I slide inexorably in towards beginning my 50th year (I will be 47 net Jan!!).

A stunning looking concept – a great piece of artwork!