Hypersonix and Rocket Lab partner to launch DART AE

From that point, the additive engineering craft will be able to demonstrate non-ballistic flight patterns, acceleration up to speeds of Mach 7, flexible engine burns and up to 1,000-kilometre range while collecting flight data from its journey at hypersonic speed.

Hypersonix chief executive officer David Waterhouse said data collected by the oxygen-breathing and hydrogen-fuelled engine will accelerate the evaluation of potential systems, concepts, technologies and mission sets.

“We have looked at various launch providers globally, as DART AE is designed to work with a variety of boosters,” he said.

“We are particularly excited to get our first ride from Rocket Lab. Their track record of successful launches, their team, as well as their rockets are impressive, and we look forward to seeing DART AE fly for the first time next year”.

Both companies have worked together on projects since 2020, according to Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck.

“We look forward to partnering with the innovative team at Hypersonix to deliver highly capable, frequent, and cost-effective hypersonic and suborbital test opportunities,” he said.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.