Congressman Fong Recognizes Stratolaunch for Completing Second Hypersonic Flight to Advance Aerospace Innovation

CENTRAL VALLEY, Calif. – Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) is recognizing Stratolaunch for completing its second hypersonic flight with the Talon-A2 (TA-2), an autonomous vehicle. This milestone flight supports the Department of Defense Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) program and plays a vital role in strengthening our nation's aerospace and defense industry. Stratolaunch is building on the success of its December 2024 flight – breaking previous speed records with Talon-A2, which has once again surpassed Mach 5 – to enhance future missions and strengthen national security.

"I’m proud of Stratolaunch for leading the charge in advancing hypersonic technology with the successful completion of our second Talon-A2 flight,” said Congressman Fong. “This milestone not only demonstrates the capabilities of reusable hypersonic vehicles but also reinforces their commitment to supporting U.S. defense initiatives. By accelerating testing and refining these technologies, we're helping ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of hypersonic innovation.”

Government and industry played key roles in this achievement, showcasing the importance of public-private collaborations in advancing hypersonic technology. 

“Stratolaunch had another great flight with its Talon-A hypersonic vehicle, starting a new era of reusable, hypersonic flight test in the United States,” said Dr. Zachary Krevor, President and CEOof Stratolaunch. “We appreciate all the support of our government stakeholders, including the ever-present encouragement and advocacy from Congressman Fong. Due to the backing of Congress, Stratolaunch has accelerated hypersonic capability for our country, further demonstrating the innovation that can be unlocked from a public-private collaboration.  We’re looking forward to our next hypersonic flight.” 

Background

Stratolaunch’s efforts are focused on supporting U.S. defense initiatives and advancing reusable hypersonic flight testing, marking the nation's return to hypersonic test flights since the X-15 program ended in 1968. The TA-2 flight tests supported the Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) program under a partnership with Leidos. These successful flights provide valuable data for accelerating hypersonic testing. 

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