How Hypersonix’s groundbreaking hydrogen engine and reusable hypersonic vehicle are redefining aerospace innovation

An Australian startup is making global headlines after securing $46 million to advance the world’s first hydrogen-fueled hypersonic flight. Brisbane-based Hypersonix Launch Systems, founded in 2019, has closed a major Series A round to support the upcoming flight tests of its revolutionary DART AE vehicle — a breakthrough moment for clean, high-speed aerospace technology.

The funding was backed by a diverse group of national and international investors, including Australia’s National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC). The round was led by UK national security investor High Tor Capital, with additional support from Saab and Poland’s RKKVC family office.

A Major Boost for Hypersonic Flight

With this new investment, Hypersonix is preparing to test-fly its DART AE, a reusable hypersonic aircraft developed for the US Defense Innovation Unit’s HyCAT program. The compact 3.5-meter (11.5-foot) vehicle is powered by the company’s 3D-printed SPARTAN scramjet engine, designed to reach blistering speeds of Mach 7.

Built entirely in Australia, DART AE will serve as a flying testbed for emerging technologies that demand extreme speed, durability, and precision. Initial test flights are planned for early next year at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.

NRFC noted that its funding will help expand advanced manufacturing capabilities in Queensland, accelerate product development, and support testing under the US Government’s Defense Innovation Unit.

The Power of a Hydrogen Engine

At the heart of Hypersonix’s innovation is its hydrogen-powered scramjet engine — a clean, reusable propulsion system with no moving parts. Unlike traditional kerosene-fueled scramjets, SPARTAN runs exclusively on hydrogen, producing zero emissions while offering performance of up to Mach 12.

“SPARTAN is more than a propulsion system. It’s a breakthrough in reusable hypersonic flight,” said Hypersonix co-founder and chief technologist Michael Smart. “We’re building a clean, cost-effective, real-world aerospace platform with unmatched capabilities.”

Expanding a New Generation of Hypersonic Vehicles

Beyond DART AE, Hypersonix is developing two additional aircraft: the VISR and the Delta Velos.

Delta Velos, a 16-meter vehicle capable of Mach 5 to 12, is designed for satellite launches and low-Earth orbit missions.

VISR, an 8-meter runway-capable aircraft, targets multiple uses including military surveillance and high-speed cargo transport.

Hypersonix CEO Matt Hill emphasized the strategic importance of this investment:
“Having Australia’s sovereign investor backing such a critical capability sends a powerful message. It shows real confidence in our mission and underscores the need for clean, reusable aerospace systems that support national security while shaping the future of the industry.”

Conclusion

With fresh funding and global partnerships in place, Hypersonix is positioning Australia at the forefront of hydrogen hypersonic innovation. If you enjoy staying ahead of aerospace breakthroughs, follow, share, or comment — your engagement helps bring more cutting-edge stories to readers around the world.