Stratolaunch has been awarded a $24.7 million contract by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to conduct a groundbreaking hypersonic flight test mission. The project aims to support national defense objectives by enhancing the U.S.’s ability to test advanced missile defense systems against hypersonic threats.
The mission will utilize Stratolaunch’s modified Spirit of Mojave 747 aircraft, which serves as a launch platform for the company’s Talon-A hypersonic vehicle. The modifications will allow the Talon-A to operate beyond the U.S. western coast, enabling tests in various global locations. The test campaign is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025.
Dr. Zachary Krevor, CEO and President of Stratolaunch, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “We are excited to provide the Missile Defense Agency with unmatched hypersonic test capabilities using our reusable Talon-A and Spirit of Mojave platforms,” he said. “This mission will strengthen national security by enabling rapid testing of new missile defense systems designed to counter hypersonic threats.”
Krevor emphasized the flexibility of Stratolaunch’s approach. “By allowing Talon-A launches from any airport capable of handling a 747, we are delivering operational flexibility and global scalability to our customers. This contract solidifies our role as a critical partner in advancing national security through cutting-edge hypersonic testing.”
Michael Kryzak, MDA Director of Systems, Targets, and Countermeasures, highlighted the challenges posed by hypersonic threats. “Hypersonic weapons are hard to detect and counter due to their speed, maneuverability, and unpredictable flight paths,” he said. “We are proud to collaborate with Stratolaunch to test our defensive systems against these emerging threats.”
The contract falls under the MDA Innovation, Science & Technology Broad Agency Announcement (HQ0860-23-S-0001) and is fully funded by fiscal year 2024 research, development, test, and evaluation funds. The modifications to the Spirit of Mojave will primarily take place at Stratolaunch’s headquarters in Mojave, California.
This initiative underscores Stratolaunch’s commitment to advancing hypersonic technology and supporting the U.S. in maintaining its leadership in a rapidly evolving global threat landscape.
