Mach 6 HyFly wants to make 3X the charm

The first test in September 2007 was mostly scratched by a software glitch unrelated to the engine. The second test in January 2008 was mostly a failure because of a fuel system malfunction, also unrelated to the engine.

For the HyFly program, it was the worst possible outcome: two tests and still no data to prove whether the Mach 6 dual combustion ramjet (DCR) technology works or doesn't.

Now, the Boeing/Aerojet team has successfully persuaded its DARPA/Office of Naval Research sponsors to pay $18.3 million to stage a third test, which represents the navy's hopes for achieving ultra-high speed flight. A date has not been set for the third test, but it is unlikely to occur before 2010.