Lockheed Martin eyes world's first supersonic business jet
WASHINGTON, December 16, 2017
Global security and aerospace company Lockheed Martin said it has signed a MoU with Aerion, a leader in supersonic technology, to define a formal and gated process to explore the feasibility of a joint development of the world's first supersonic business jet - the Aerion AS2
As per the agreement, the duo will work together to develop a framework on all phases of the programme, including engineering, certification and production over the next 12 months.
The deal is the result of extensive discussions between Aerion and Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works Advanced Development Programs team. For close to 75 years, Skunk Works has existed to create revolutionary aircraft that push the boundaries of what is possible, said the company in a statement.
Lockheed Martin, known for developing the world's leading supersonic combat aircraft, the F-16, the F-35, and F-22, as well as the Mach 3+ SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft, is committed to fostering new innovations and developing supersonic technologies with civil and commercial applications, it added.
Aerion chairman Robert M. Bass pointed out that this relationship was absolutely key to creating a supersonic renaissance.
"When it comes to supersonic know-how, Lockheed Martin's capabilities are well known, and, in fact, legendary. We share with Lockheed Martin a commitment to the long-term development of efficient civil supersonic aircraft," remarked Bass.
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics' executive VP Orlando Carvalho said: "We are excited to work with Aerion on their development of the next-generation, efficient supersonic jet that will potentially serve as a platform for pioneering future supersonic aircraft."
"Following our initial review of Aerion's aerodynamic technology, our conclusion is that the Aerion AS2 concept warrants the further investment of our time and resources," stated Carvalho.
"We are committed to remaining on the cutting edge of aerospace technology and are excited to examine the contribution we might make to working with Aerion on making aviation history," he added.
During the last two and a half years, Aerion advanced the aerodynamics and structural design of the AS2 through a previous engineering collaboration agreement with Airbus. Through that effort, the two companies developed a preliminary design of wing and airframe structures, systems layout, and preliminary concepts for a fly-by-wire flight control system.
Brian Barents, the executive chairman at Aerion, said: "We are grateful for Airbus' contribution to the program. We could not have moved the program to this stage without their support."
In May 2017, GE Aviation announced an agreement with Aerion to define a supersonic engine for the AS2. The latest announcement with Lockheed Martin further positions Aerion as the leader in the nascent sector of civil supersonic aviation, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
