TSSC moves towards next stage
USAF project investigates advanced propulsion systems for sustained supersonic combustion.
The USAF has awarded Innovative Scientific Solutions an IDIQ contract worth up to $44.19 million, to conduct Technical Area 2 development work in the Technology for Sustained Supersonic Combustion (TSSC) programme.
This element of TSSC focuses on ‘development and evaluation of advanced aero propulsion systems and components, airframe structures [and] internal/external aerodynamics’, including ‘integration into air vehicles, weapons and launch components’, the DoD announced on 31 January.
Technical Area 2 will focus on low-weight propulsion solutions and evaluating the effect of engine scale to determine operability, durability and performance.
Innovative Scientific Solutions will execute the contract at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. It is expected to complete the work by February 2028.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
More from Air Warfare
-
![CH-47 Chinook: why the iconic helicopter design is still a heavy-lift contender (updated 2026)]()
CH-47 Chinook: why the iconic helicopter design is still a heavy-lift contender (updated 2026)
From its emergence as a ground-breaking design in the 1950s to its widespread deployment in diverse operations worldwide, the Chinook continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. Shephard sums up the helicopter’s latest developments.
-
![UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities]()
UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities
Project Nightfall and Project Octopus both fall under the Lyra programme, with UK industry working to develop and deliver additional missiles and drones to help bolster Ukraine’s warfighting capabilities against Russia.
-
![How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense]()
How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense
Modern C-UAS solutions must detect threats early, integrate layered sensors, and deliver fast, scalable, adaptable defense against evolving drones.
-
![How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics]()
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.
