The U.S. Defense Department is gearing up for joint hypersonics experiments with the Australian military, marking a significant step in their collaborative efforts on advanced technology. Heidi Shyu, the Pentagon’s undersecretary of defense for research and engineering, disclosed that plans for these experiments are in motion, and they are expected to take place as early as 2023. This development follows a year of deepening ties between the two nations in the realm of hypersonic technologies.
The collaboration between the U.S. and Australia on hypersonics has been ongoing for more than 15 years. The recent plans for joint experiments signify a strategic move in the second phase of the trilateral pact involving the U.S., Australia, and the U.K., known as AUKUS. This phase focuses on advanced technology endeavors, including hypersonics, quantum computing, autonomy, and electronic warfare.
Hypersonic vehicles, capable of traveling and maneuvering at speeds exceeding Mach 5, have become a critical area of exploration in military technology. The collaboration is expected to enhance the capabilities of both nations in this cutting-edge field. Australia has been an active participant in previous hypersonic research programs, such as HiFiRE and SCIFiRE, exploring high-speed weapons and precision strike missiles.
The joint experiments are anticipated to yield valuable insights and advancements in hypersonic technology, contributing to the collective defense capabilities of the U.S. and Australia. The collaboration aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the technological foundation of defense initiatives and highlights the significance of international partnerships in addressing complex challenges in the modern era.
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