Colorado-based Boom Supersonic successfully achieved its supersonic mission when its XB-1 demonstrator reached Mach 1.122 during its latest test flight. The XB-1 demonstrator’s test programme began in March 2024, with the aim of reaching Mach 1 after a series of supersonic test flights.
Each of the 11 test flights was undertaken to evaluate the aircraft’s performance and handling qualities as the flight envelope was expanded to reach increased speeds.
The flight took place from California’s Mojave Air and Space Port. The XB-1 jet entered the supersonic corridor and reached an altitude of 35,290 feet before accelerating to Mach 1.122 (652 KTAS or 750mph).
This is a historic achievement as it marks the first time an independently developed jet has broken the sound barrier.
Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, said: “A small band of talented and dedicated engineers has accomplished what previously took governments and billions of dollars.
“Next, we are scaling up the technology...