|
|
Article: Alliant tests next-generation missile system; The company's hypersonic scramjet has a greater range, is lighter and - at Mach 5.5 - much faster than the delivery vehicles now being used.(BUSINESS)
- Article from:
- Star Tribune (Minneapolis, MN)
- Article date:
- December 17, 2005
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 Star Tribune Co. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Byline: Neal Gendler; Staff Writer
Alliant Techsystems Inc. has successfully tested a version of its record-setting hypersonic "scramjet," which could eventually be used as an air-launched, long-range weapon.
The Dec. 10 launch was part of a Defense Department program called Freeflight Atmospheric Scramjet Test Technique. Edina-based Alliant was the designer, builder and mission manager.
The scramjet promises "time-critical strike capabilities" in situations in which a target must be hit with very little preparation time - for example, if a terrorist were caught in the open, Alliant spokesman Bryce Hallowell said.
The scramjet's low ...