Spotlight on the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)
The need for speed has never been more critical. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the United States stands on the brink of a hypersonic revolution. With advancements in technology outpacing traditional defenses, we are called not just to adapt, but to lead in an arena where milliseconds can mean the difference between success and failure.
The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning. Hypersonics is not merely about reaching unprecedented speeds; it’s about redefining our strategic posture. The convergence of innovation and urgency has ignited an era where missile defense strategies must evolve. This is our moment to seize not just for security, but for the empowerment of a skilled workforce who will drive these advancements in hypersonics. Together, we will ensure that the United States not only keeps pace with global advancements but sets the standard in hypersonics and missile defense.
Women in Hypersonics shines the spotlight on those at the forefront of this transformation, tackling the complex challenges of hypersonic development.
NSIN -the National Security Innovation Network
The National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) is a component of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) program office. NSIN is an unrivaled problem-solving network in the U.S. Department of Defense that adapts to the emerging needs of those who serve in the defense of our national security.
NSIN and Hypersonics
Hypersonic Cost Reduction Challenge was offered by a collaborative effort of the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) and the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane). Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane), located in Crane, Indiana is a shore command of the U.S. Navy. NSWC Crane is under the Naval Sea Systems Command headquartered in Washington DC.
The purpose of the challenge was to identify capabilities to reduce cost of hypersonic glide bodies and associated sensors. Currently, a wide range of costly inertial sensors and communication and antenna systems are integrated into hypersonic glide bodies. Additionally, sub-assemblies, thermal protective systems, and control surfaces are time consuming and costly to produce. The desire is to identify revolutionary processes, materials, or capabilities that can augment or replace existing ones to reduce cost and assembly time. These capabilities can replace existing flight control, sensor, materials, and structures onboard. These systems must be able to survive hypersonic environments and be able to be manufactured at scale.
Materials Fabrication and Flight Testing
The selected awardees fell into one of two categories: One, improved material fabrication processes to deliver thermal management materials more quickly and less costly than current materials and processes. Two, technologies to reduce costs and schedule of hypersonic flight testing for systems and subsystems.
General Hypersonics, Inc. (GHI) took the $40,000 of the $100,000 total prize pool in the final round of the Hypersonic Cost Reduction Challenge. Out of 21 applicants, GHI and the other three top ventures set forth solutions with the greatest potential to address costs. Cambium and Canopy Aerospace tied for second place and Longshot Space Technologies took third. All three companies received $20,000 for their technologies.
