Two leaders in supersonic technology, Aerion (
www.aerionsupersonic.com) and Lockheed Martin (
www.lockheedmartin.co.uk), have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the joint development of the world’s first supersonic business jet, the Aerion AS2.
Over the next 12 months, the companies will work together to develop a framework on all phases of the programme, including engineering, certification and production.
Aerion chairman Robert Bass said: “This relationship is absolutely key to creating a supersonic renaissance. When it comes to supersonic know-how, Lockheed Martin’s capabilities are well known. We share with Lockheed Martin a commitment to the long-term development of efficient civil supersonic aircraft.”
The MoU is the result of extensive discussions between Aerion and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works Advanced Development Programs team, which for almost 75 years has been creating revolutionary aircraft that push the boundaries of what is possible, with world-leading supersonic combat aircraft such as the F-16, the F-35, and the F-22 — plus the Mach 3+ SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft.
Orlando Carvalho, executive vice-president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, said: “Following our initial review of Aerion’s aerodynamic technology, our conclusion is that the Aerion AS2 concept warrants the further investment of our time and resources.
“We are committed to remaining on the cutting edge of aerospace technology, and we are excited to examine the contribution we might make to working with Aerion on making aviation history.”
During the last two and a half years, Aerion advanced the aerodynamics and structural design of the AS2 through a previous engineering collaboration agreement with Airbus.
Through their work, the two companies developed a preliminary design of wing and airframe structures, systems layout, and preliminary concepts for a fly-by-wire flight control system.
In May 2017, GE Aviation announced an agreement with Aerion to define a supersonic engine for the AS2. The latest announcement with Lockheed Martin further positions Aerion as the leader in the nascent sector of civil supersonic aviation.