Joint Hypersonic Technology Development &Transition

The Joint Hypersonic Technology Development & Transition program, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, focuses on advancing hypersonic technologies. This comprehensive approach involves research, testing, and workforce development. The Joint Hypersonics Transition Office (JHTO) is crucial in this effort by establishing a university consortium dedicated to hypersonics research. This initiative supports broader goals of building a sustainable and resilient defense ecosystem by expediting the testing, evaluation, and acquisition of hypersonic technologies to meet warfighter needs.

A key objective is to integrate advanced technologies into prototyping demonstration programs for hypersonic systems. This integration aims to accelerate the maturation and deployment of future hypersonic capabilities. The JHTO also develops strategies and roadmaps that facilitate the transition of these technologies into operational capabilities. This ensures that emerging hypersonic systems align effectively with strategic requirements.

In addition to technology development, the program emphasizes workforce enhancement as a critical component. The University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH) plays an instrumental role by offering scholarships and hosting industry days to foster workforce development. These efforts aim to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of advancing hypersonic technologies and addressing gaps in research and development.

The program includes specific science and technology projects such as Navigation, Guidance and Controls (NGC), Propulsion, Systems Engineering, Design and Analysis (SEDA), Materials, Structures and Manufacturing (MSM), Ordnance, and Aerodynamics/Aerothermodynamics development. Each project aligns with the Hypersonics Science and Technology Roadmap to enhance various aspects of hypersonic systems' performance. These initiatives collectively contribute to improving operational capabilities while ensuring technological advancements are seamlessly integrated into defense strategies.