Successful Test of Ursa Major's Draper Engine Enhances U.S. Hypersonic Capabilities

Ursa Major's Draper engine passes hot-fire test, enhancing U.S. hypersonic defense with improved maneuverability and reliability.

Ursa Major, a top rocket propulsion company, has successfully completed a hot-fire test of its Draper engine. The Draper engine is designed to provide better performance and reliability for advanced aerospace applications.

The Draper engine, funded by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), combines the storable features of a solid rocket motor with the high performance and flexibility of a liquid engine. This unique combination allows it to better simulate hypersonic threats, addressing a critical gap in America's hypersonics capabilities.

Traditionally, missile defense systems have used solid rocket motors, which lack the ability to change thrust in real-time. This limitation makes them less effective against complex and unpredictable hypersonic weapons. In contrast, liquid rocket engines, like the Draper, offer active throttle control and a broader range of thrust options. This provides the maneuverability and flexibility essential for effective hypersonic defense.

The development of the Draper engine involved extensive research and collaboration with industry experts to ensure it meets the highest standards of efficiency and reliability. This makes it suitable for a variety of missions, from deploying small satellites to supporting larger interplanetary ventures.

Ursa Major's success with the Draper engine represents a significant advancement in rocket propulsion technology, enhancing the United States' capabilities in both defense and space exploration.