Supersonic Test Flight Boosts Confidence in Draper Rocket Engine Technology
Supersonic Test Flight Boosts Confidence in Draper Rocket Engine Technology
Publish Date: 2026-03-17 17:36:00
Source Domain: texasborderbusiness.com
The Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator sits staged for flight Jan. 27, 2026. The missile was positioned on a specialized air log cart, used to transport and load the vehicle onto the Transportable Target Launcher. The flight was a key milestone in increasing the technology readiness level of the Draper liquid rocket engine. Photo credit: Ryan Harty, Army via US DOW
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By Air Force Research Laboratory Public Affairs Office / US DOW
The Air Force Research Laboratory and an aerospace technology and defense systems contractor recently flew the Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator, powered by the Draper liquid rocket engine, achieving supersonic speeds and demonstrating key concepts of operations. This flight is an innovative step toward advancing capabilities that strengthen deterrence and provide rapid global strike options.
This project proves that we can transform and leverage our acquisition models to rapidly deliver critical technology advancements to deter and win in a future conflict,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Bartolomei, AFRL commander and Air Force technology executive officer. “We are not just building a single missile; we are forging a new path toward a cost-effective, mass-producible deterrent for the nation.”
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The Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator, powered by the Draper liquid rocket engine, launches during a recent flight. The flight was a key milestone in increasing the technology readiness level of the Draper liquid rocket engine. Photo credit: Ryan Harty, Army via US DOW
This sentiment is echoed by the contractor’s leaders, who emphasized their shared commitment to the ARMD program’s speed and cost-effectiveness. This project represents a new paradigm for accelerating research and development of critical defense technologies, rooted in fast-paced, effective public-private partnerships.
“This flight proves that you can get a vehicle with a safe, storable and throttleable liquid…
