// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Supercruise
Supercruise is the ability of a jet aircraft to fly at supersonic speeds without needing to use its afterburners, which are typically very fuel-intensive.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Supercruise refers to the sustained supersonic flight capability of a jet aircraft, typically a fighter, without engaging engine afterburners, thereby achieving enhanced fuel efficiency and extended combat range by balancing engine thrust with aerodynamic drag at Mach 1+.
BACKGROUND
Supercruise is sustained supersonic flight of a supersonic aircraft without using afterburner. Many supersonic military aircraft are not capable of supercruise and can maintain Mach 1+ flight only in short bursts with afterburners. Aircraft such as the SR-71 Blackbird are designed to cruise at supersonic speed with afterburners enabled.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Sustained supersonic flight
- Afterburner-less supersonic
- Efficient supersonic flight
- Dry supersonic cruise
USAGE NOTE
This capability is a significant advantage in combat, allowing aircraft to maintain high speeds for longer periods without rapid fuel depletion.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Supercruise.
A global aerospace and defense company, known for developing the F-22 Raptor, the world's first operational stealth fighter with supercruise capability.
A leading aerospace manufacturer, responsible for developing the F119 engine that powers the F-22 Raptor, enabling its supercruise performance.
A consortium of Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, responsible for developing the Eurofighter Typhoon, a multirole fighter with supercruise capability.
A major provider of aerospace propulsion systems, supplying engines like the EJ200 for the Eurofighter Typhoon, which contributes to its supercruise performance.
A Swedish aerospace and defense company known for developing the JAS 39 Gripen E/F, a multirole fighter aircraft demonstrating supercruise capabilities.
A French aircraft manufacturer, producer of the Rafale multirole fighter, which possesses limited supercruise capabilities.