Forthcoming

India in Pursuit of Hypersonic Flight

GS Bedi

India’s Pursuit in Hypersonic Flight takes readers on an exhilarating journey from humanity’s first encounters with high-speed motion to the groundbreaking advancements expected in the coming decades. Covering a vast spectrum of hypersonic technology, this book is designed for both experts and curious minds alike—requiring no prior knowledge to appreciate its insights. Complex scientific concepts are elegantly simplified, making them accessible without losing their depth and significance. Presented in a seamless chronological flow, the narrative captivates readers, building intrigue with every chapter. By the end, one is not only well-versed in hypersonic technology but also equipped to engage in thought-provoking discussions on its future applications. A must-read for war strategists, defence professionals, and technology enthusiasts alike!”.

GS Bedi

Air Marshal GS Bedi (Retd) was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in June 1984. He has over 3700 hours of accident free flying on MiG 21 and Mirage – 2000 aircraft. He was awarded Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) in the Kargil conflict. GS Bedi is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College Wellington and an alumni of the National Defence College, New Delhi. He has commanded a Fighter Squadron and a front line Fighter Base.

He has served in many prestigious appointments, like the Air Adviser at the High Commission of India, London, Air Officer Commanding Jammu & Kashmir, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff Operations (Offensive) and Personnel (Officers). He was the Senior Air Staff Officer of two operational Commands and the Director General (Inspection and Safety) at Air HQ from where he retired on 30 April 2022.

In the recognition of his distinguished service, he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.

Contents

Foreword

Special Remarks

Introductory Remarks

Preface

Acknowledgements

Figures

Abbreviations

1 Introduction
2 Brief History
3 Flight in Space vs Atmosphere
4 Propulsion for Hypersonic Flight
5 Fuels for Scramjet Engine
6 Materials for High Speed Flight
7 Thermoaerodynamics and Shapes of Hypersonic Systems
8 Testing Hypersonic Systems
9 World Hypersonic Programmes
10 Military Applications of Hypersonic
11 Counter Hypersonic Technologies
12 Commercial Applications
13 The India Chapter