The development of a hypersonic engine capable of changing shape in flight began with a grant from the US Research Laboratory of the USF. In its early stages, the project shows promise in significantly increasing performance and efficiency compared to existing models. This will allow for speeds ranging from 5 to 17 times the speed of sound.
In the 1960s, the first flights at hypersonic speeds exceeding the speed of sound were achieved on missile ships. Since then, efforts have been intensified to create engines that operate in the air and can reach speeds over 5 Mach without the need for missile fuel. While scramjets are common, they have certain disadvantages in terms of efficiency and performance.
A research group from the University of Central Florida received a grant for the design of an engine that aims to solve some of the most pressing problems in high-speed air travel. Professor Karim Ahmed, the project manager, states that the new engine will be self-optimized to maximize performance, traction, and range. This engine will be the first of its kind in the history of hypersonic technologies. (source)
Ahmed and his team have already developed an “aerothermodynamic” model for the hypersonic engine and are currently in the experimental testing stage. The long-term development goals include the creation of high-performance military devices, a quick emergency response system, and even commercial air travel with significantly reduced flight times. For instance, the flight time between New York and Los Angeles could be reduced from 6 hours to just 30 minutes.
With an impressive background in Ministry of Defense development, Ahmed and his team appear to be the most suitable candidates for the implementation of this ambitious project. “We are very glad that we were chosen to participate in the program,” said Ahmed. “This program gives our group the opportunity to contribute and influence.”