VIVAERO

Venus Aerospace unveils hypersonic engine capable of Mach 6

Venus Aerospace, a company developing reusable hypersonic technology, has introduced an innovative propulsion system, designed to power high-speed vehicles such as drones and aircraft.

This advanced engine, called the VDR2 combines the high thrust and efficiency of the Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) with the cruising efficiency of a Ramjet. Capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 6, the VDR2 offers a streamlined airflow design that minimizes drag and eliminates the need for complex mechanical components.

Founded in 2020 by Andrew and Sassie Duggleby, Venus Aerospace has raised $70m to develop reusable high-speed technology, aiming to revolutionise aviation and defence sectors. The company has already achieved significant milestones, including the successful flight of its inaugural supersonic drone in February 2024.

Andrew Duggleby, co-founder of Venus Aerospace, unveiled the VDR2 at the Up.Summit, highlighting its potential to make the hypersonic economy a reality. “We are excited to partner with Velontra to achieve this revolution in high-speed flight, given their expertise in high-speed air combustion,” Duggleby stated.

Eric Briggs, Velontra’s chief operating officer, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasising the shared vision of advancing high-speed flight technology. “We can’t wait to dig in, make the first one fly, and ultimately perfect an engine concept that has lived mostly in textbooks but never as a production unit in the air,” says Eric Briggs, Velontra’s Chief Operating Officer. “We couldn’t think of a better partner than Venus. Rocketry pioneers in their own right, and ready to tackle the hard problems, we are eager to fly the same path with them.” Combining technologies allows both Venus Aerospace and Velontra to take tangible steps toward their shared vision of unlocking the high-speed flight economy in the commercial and defence sectors.

The VDR2 is set to take flight in Venus Aerospace’s hypersonic flight test drone in 2025. 

The VDR2 engine is expected to have wide-ranging applications, from commercial aviation to defence. Its ability to achieve high-Mach speeds with efficiency could revolutionize air travel, making long-distance flights significantly faster. In the defence sector, the engine’s capabilities could enhance the performance of military aircraft and drones, providing a strategic advantage. Venus Aerospace and Velontra are committed to continuing their collaboration, with plans to further innovate and refine hypersonic technology, aiming to unlock new possibilities in high-speed flight.

www.venusaero.com