Exclusive Q&A with Lieutenant General (USA-ret) Neil Thurgood

In your opinion, what are the most important capabilities of existing facilities to replicate extreme hypersonic conditions like high Mach numbers and temperatures?
The ground flight test infrastructure needs several key areas to replicate the operational environment, which would reduce “live in environment” test, increase the speed of technology and enhance mission survivability well in advance of actual combat actions.

The test infra-structure needs to do all simultaneously across aerodynamics, propulsion, material and mission outcome:
1. Temperature, all ranges required
2. Pressure that is variable pressure outcomes
3. Maneuvering forces in all axis
4. Speed across hypersonic ranges.

With advancements in ground testing, how well can industry test different aspects of hypersonic flight (aerodynamics, heat resistance, propulsion, materials)?
Currently, the most advanced test facilities are owned and operated by the government. There are not currently sufficient testing facilities in size and/or scale to meet the S&T requirements and the program requirements. This is improving and there are plans in place to help accelerate additional test facilities.

What data acquisition systems are in place to accurately measure critical parameters, are there sufficient test ranges available for flight testing?
The ranges for live fire testing and the data collection methods are currently based on legacy capabilities, with an effort to improve. The govt is on the path to move from surface-based data collection to space-based data collection which could dramatically increase the “turnaround time” and the fidelity of test data. At the current testing levels and pace, current ranges are at capacity. Additional live fire testing ranges will be needed to increase the rate of testing.

How can the current infrastructure be upgraded to meet the demands of emerging hypersonic technologies; particularly focusing on areas like engine performance, thermal protection systems, and maneuverability in extreme environments?
There is an increasing need for additional arc-jet heaters, both in size and environmental range considerations. This means moving from simple “coupon testing” to large material testing, as well as systems testing. This would support TPS, engine performance and maneuverability.

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