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China Successfully Tests Feitian‑2 Hypersonic Vehicle with Advanced RBCC Engine.

Science and Technology | Dated: 04 Jul 2025

In late June 2025, Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) conducted a flight test of Feitian‑2, a reusable hypersonic vehicle equipped with a pioneering rocket-based combined cycle (RBCC) engine, demonstrating seamless mode-switch capability and advanced autonomous flight—marking a major leap in aeronautics.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - Feitian‑2 achieved speeds up to Mach 12 (~14,800 km/h) and executed smooth transitions from rocket-powered ejector mode to air-breathing ramjet mode, showcasing critical in-flight flexibility for hypersonic missions.
  • - The RBCC engine uses a kerosene–hydrogen peroxide propellant, allowing onboard mode switching without heavy cryogenic oxygen. This hybrid system reduces weight, enhances fuel efficiency, and increases payload capacity.
  • - Design upgrades like variable-geometry intakes, larger tail fins, and additional wings improved stability and autonomous flight control, including real-time angle-of-attack adjustments—ideal for unmanned hypersonic platforms.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) The test provided groundbreaking real-flight RBCC data, marking the first recorded use of kerosene–hydrogen peroxide in such engines. These insights are vital for refining high-speed propulsion, aerodynamics, and future reusable hypersonic systems.
  • (ii) Feitian‑2 establishes China’s lead in the global hypersonic arms and aerospace race. Its reusable platform with multi-mode propulsion could redefine military applications—such as missiles and strike drones—and accelerate future civilian use like supersonic transport.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Recently (June 2025), which country successfully tested the hypersonic vehicle 'Feitian-2'?

Correct Answer: China

🚀 Quick Recap:

About China

  • President: Xi Jinping
  • Capital: Beijing