Hypersonics

Hypersonics

Expanding hypersonic capabilities

The United States faces significant technical challenges in developing and fielding effective hypersonic weapon systems, an essential technology in today’s contested operating environment and a critical difference-maker in the nation’s ability to project power and protect itself and its allies against a new generation of threats. Hypersonic vehicles can reach speeds exceeding 4,000 miles per hour—fast enough to reach Baltimore from Washington in about 30 seconds—and aggressors equipped with hypersonic missiles can penetrate air defenses.

The nation’s adversaries are currently testing military applications of hypersonics technology, which adds urgency to APL’s ongoing foundational work in hypersonic technologies. Our work in hypersonic technologies goes back to the 1960s, when we undertook a then-classified program to develop a family of supersonic combustion ramjet technologies.

From basic aerodynamic research to innovative technology development, APL is driving multiple technical improvements that are vital to the effectiveness and survivability of the nation’s offensive and defensive hypersonic capabilities. The cutting-edge technologies conceived of and developed by APL are critical to operational concepts supporting national priorities such as the Golden Dome for America missile defense system, operational needs in the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) theater, and ensuring survivable reentry vehicles against increasingly capable adversary defenses. The Laboratory leads projects that advance the state of the art in guidance, navigation, and control of these vehicles; validate the tools used to predict vehicle aerodynamics and aerothermodynamics, including boundary layer transition; and create materials capable of withstanding the extreme thermal environment.

Recent Contributions

APL is accelerating the development, implementation, and fielding of hypersonic technologies. The Lab also matures the effectiveness and reliability of these critical technologies before transitioning them to industry partners to meet sponsor needs.

As examples, in 2025, APL delivered the following contributions for these essential technologies.

Featured Work

Coatings for extreme environments

Creating Coatings for Extreme Environments

APL researchers are developing coatings that can stand up to the rigors of hypersonic flight in the upper atmosphere.
Learn more about Creating Coatings for Extreme Environments
Image of Boundary Layer Transition (BOLT) flight hardware

Boundary Layer Transition (BOLT)

Advancing hypersonic vehicle design through boundary layer transition research
Learn more about Boundary Layer Transition (BOLT)

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