China tests versatile hypersonic drone for edge-of-space missions
China has successfully tested the hypersonic drone MD-19. This design offers exceptional capabilities: It can travel at hypersonic speeds and land like a typical airplane after decelerating. Its purpose is to fly near the Kármán line, on the edge of space.
China continues to develop hypersonic weapons. On the Chinese social media platform Weibo, a recording documenting the new hypersonic vehicle MD-19 test was posted. This design offers exceptional capabilities.
The tests were conducted using two platforms. In the first case, the MD-19 was launched from under the fuselage of the larger drone Tengden TB-001. The second test was conducted using a stratospheric airship as a carrier.
Detailed technical data of the MD-19 are not yet known. However, visible details suggest that a rocket engine was likely used for propulsion instead of the commonly used ramjet in hypersonic vehicles.
The hypersonic drone is expected to be based on the larger model MD-22, which is approximately 11 metres in length with a wingspan of about 5 metres, and a takeoff weight estimated at 4,000 kg. The MD-19 is clearly smaller—its length is estimated at 3 metres (as indicated by the footage of the takeoff under the Tengden TB-001 drone).
Flights to space and back
What distinguishes the MD-19 from similar designs is its ability to fly at hypersonic speeds and decelerate, allowing for a controlled landing much like a regular airplane.
This capability allows for multiple uses of this equipment, and since the MD-19 does not require extensive infrastructure for takeoff (it is launched into the air by other drones), it increases the flexibility of its use.
The MD-19 is intended for flights on the edge of space. Although it was not designed as a space object, it is meant to be capable of flights on the edge of the atmosphere, near the Kármán line.
Its purpose has not yet been specified, but its capabilities align with the trend shown during the presentation of the concept of the Chinese 6th generation multi-role aircraft. The futuristic design, called White Emperor, is expected to be capable of flights both in the Earth's atmosphere and beyond.
