An artist’s impression of the Polaris Spaceplanes Hypersonic Test and Experimentation Vehicle (HYTEV) research vehicle. The first flight is anticipated before the end of 2027. (Polaris Spaceplanes)
The German government has contracted Polaris Spaceplanes to build and flight test a reusable hypersonic air vehicle.
The Bremen-based company announced the contract from the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) award on 28 January, saying it covers the manufacture and flight test of the two-stage, horizontal take-off, and fully reusable Hypersonic Test and Experimentation Vehicle (HYTEV) research vehicle.
“The main purpose of the two-stage system is to serve as [a] hypersonic testbed and experimental platform for defence-related as well as scientific/institutional research. In a secondary function, the vehicle can be used as [a] spaceplane for launching small satellites when using an expendable upper stage,” Polaris Spaceplanes said. The value of the contract was not disclosed.
Early development of the HYTEV was contracted by the BAAINBw in 2024 and 2025. As noted by the company, the HYTEV is the approximate size and weight of a manned tactical combat aircraft, with the main stage powered by two turbofans and an aerospike rocket engine, while the upper stage is rocket-powered. The first flight is planned by the end of 2027.
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