The US Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) has tested a Solid Fuel Integral Rocket Ramjet (SFIRR), launching it from an unmanned aerial vehicle for the first time.
The project aims to replace traditional liquid-fuel ramjet systems with the lighter SFIRR system.
A fire control system was integrated into a BQM-34 drone, which acted as the launch platform to reach high speed and cover a longer distance.
Combined with launches from unmanned platforms, the SFIRR system enables the military to strike targets from much greater distances, significantly expanding operational reach while improving safety.
This improvement also allows for greater payload capacity and enhanced maneuverability.
For the test, the NAWCWD worked on upgrading propulsion, avionics, and fire control technologies for the past 12 months.
Latest US Military Tests
US forces are moving forward with advanced technology testing to boost operational capabilities.
Earlier this month, the US Navy completed an end-to-end flight test of its first sea-based hypersonic missile, the Conventional Prompt Strike.
The test used the cold-gas launch method for the first time, which ejects the missile safely from the platform before ignition, unlike the traditional hot launch, where it fires inside the launch cell.
Meanwhile, the US Air Force started ground testing two unmanned combat aerial vehicles, the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A, under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program.
The tests focus on propulsion, avionics, autonomy systems, and ground control, preparing the drones for flight trials later this year.
