Part 3/9:
As explained, reaching hypersonic speeds involves overcoming several difficulties linked to aerodynamics and engine performance. Traditional engines can struggle to operate efficiently above a certain speed. The transition from Mach 3.5 to Mach 5 introduces a complex interplay of flight dynamics, where managing engine efficiency becomes crucial.
Rockets, while capable of extreme speeds, bring heavy payloads of fuel — mostly liquid oxygen — making them less maneuverable than air-breathing engines. At hypersonic speeds, air-breathing technologies like scramjets (supersonic combustion ramjet engines) propose a revolutionary advantage by using atmospheric oxygen, significantly reducing weight and allowing for greater speed.