China is on the brink of a major breakthrough in hypersonic technology, driven by advancements in solid-fuel boosters and glide vehicle design. The latest innovations from Chinese scientists involve a novel type of solid-fuel booster capable of multiple ignitions, a development that is set to redefine the capabilities of hypersonic glide vehicles. This new technology promises to enhance the maneuverability and range of these weapons, pushing their performance beyond previous limits.
The concept of using multiple ignitions in solid-fuel boosters is a significant evolution from traditional missile technology. By employing this technique, the booster can provide repeated propulsion bursts, allowing the hypersonic glide vehicle to achieve speeds exceeding Mach 17 and maintain these speeds for over 30 minutes. This method of propulsion enables the HGV to follow a skipping stone trajectory, effectively allowing it to "jump" above the atmosphere. This technique not only extends the missile's range but also enhances its ability to evade advanced air defenses.
The theoretical foundations for this approach were laid as early as the 1940s by Qian Xuesen, a prominent figure in Chinese aerospace. Known as the "father of Chinese ballistic missiles," Qian’s research focused on the concept of a glide vehicle that could travel at hypersonic speeds using atmospheric lift and then re-enter the atmosphere without propulsion. Modern implementations of this concept are realized in China's DF-17 missile system, which incorporates a hypersonic glide vehicle based on Qian’s trajectory principles.
The DF-17 missile, which features a solid-fuel booster and a DF-ZF hypersonic glide vehicle, represents the current state-of-the-art in Chinese hypersonic weaponry. The DF-ZF can reach speeds between Mach 5 and Mach 10 during its glide phase, showcasing remarkable speed and maneuverability. Since its first test in 2014 and subsequent operational deployment in 2020, the DF-ZF has undergone extensive testing to refine its performance.
One notable advancement is the design of hypersonic gliders that employ a Sänger trajectory. Researchers led by Yong Enmi at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre have utilized this trajectory to develop a glider capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 20. This design has been validated through numerical simulations and wind tunnel testing, proving its potential for high-speed, long-duration flight.
Despite these advancements, current technologies still fall short of meeting all combat requirements. The military seeks hypersonic gliders that can dynamically alter their trajectories to avoid specific territorial airspace and counter advanced defensive systems. This necessitates additional auxiliary equipment, such as reaction control systems, to achieve the desired flexibility and operational effectiveness.
