These tests mark a significant step forward in enabling accurate navigation for hypersonic vehicles operating in GPS-denied environments. Northrop Grumman stated the technology aims to “further protect the trajectory of the hypersonic vehicle from adversary threats”.
The navigation unit, also referred to as a hemispherical resonator gyroscope, withstood the extreme conditions of hypersonic speeds. This survivability is considered a major achievement due to the intense forces encountered within Earth’s atmospheric boundary.
During the tests, the technology gathered several hours of essential data from both ground and flight operations. Northrop Grumman highlighted this information as “pivotal for future development” of hypersonic navigation systems.
