NSWC Crane awards hypersonic flight testing contract

October 25, 2022

(photo courtesy of Dynetics)
CRANE, Ind. - Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division has awarded a contract to Alabama-based Dynetics to support increased capacity for hypersonic flight testing. Dynetics says the program, known as Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed, will “demonstrate ways to affordably prototype a test bed that leverages multiple, commercially-available launch vehicles for hypersonic payloads.” Dynetics will work with the National Security Technology Accelerator, as well as more than 20 partners across industry, small businesses, national laboratories, and academia, to develop and execute the program. “Hypersonics are a top priority for our nation, and we’re honored to be a part of this innovative and vital initiative,” said Leidos’ Dynetics Group President Steve Cook. The contract was awarded on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense. Dynetics says the data collected through the program will offer insight on technology improvement and capability validation. In addition, the program is expected to provide a modular Experimental Glide Body to create opportunities for technologies to be tested in hypersonic environments. “We have always been fortunate to work in an industry where missions align on a single focus: protecting our nation,” Cook said. “Our team is comprised of the some of the best in the industry and dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today.” The work will be performed in Crane, as well as Alabama and the National Capital Region.