Manufacturing Minute: Stratolaunch’s Hypersonic Test Vehicle Takes First Flight in California

March 19, 2024

This week’s Manufacturing Minute, powered by Tri Tool Technologies, highlights significant developments in the aerospace and technology sectors. 

Boeing, a board member of CMTA and member of the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of California (ADAC), secured a substantial $439.6 million contract to construct the 12th Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) communications satellite for the U.S. Space Force. This contract will enhance crucial communication capabilities for military and allied operations.

Stratolaunch, LLC, another CMTA and ADAC member, celebrated a milestone with the successful inaugural flight of the Talon-A test vehicle. After multiple tests to fully power the Talon A, it took off from the Roc carrier plane and flew over the Pacific Ocean on the California coast at hypersonic speeds. Stratolaunch’s Roc plane is one of the largest in the world. The Talon A vehicle is pivotal in advancing privately funded hypersonic test capabilities. 

Finally, the Biden Administration’s $300 million in semiconductor packaging research and development funding is going out to companies. This funding is a commitment to bolstering technology innovation, particularly in the critical semiconductor sector, as part of the CHIPS for America program.  

These industry updates represent significant strides in aerospace technology and semiconductor research, showcasing the continued progress and innovation within California’s manufacturing industry. Watch your Manufacturing Minute powered by Tri Tool Technologies in the video player below.