Control Strategy for Maximizing Reconnaissance Range of Hypersonic Cruise Vehicles

Advances in hypersonic vehicle technologies, including high-temperature materials, lightweight structures, and high thrust-to-weight ratio engines, indicate that a strategic vehicle at higher Mach numbers (approximately 6) is feasible. An efficient performance analysis method is developed along with a control strategy to evaluate potential hydrogen-fueled turbojet/ramjet propulsion systems for advanced technology hypersonic cruise vehicles. A conceptual strategic reconnaissance mission is evaluated for tradeoffs between throttle and angle of attack control in minimizing fuel consumption/maximizing range. Many mission, flight, and vehicle-related requirements and constraints are satisfied in the design process. In addition, powered hypersonic flight produces unique performance characteristics not encountered at subsonic speeds.