China Claims Success In Super-fast Missile Test

China says it has successfully tested a new high-speed jet engine that will improve the performance of its air-to-air missiles.

According to state media, the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp tested a ramjet last month that could power a new generation of hypersonic missiles.

Current ramjets are designed to operate at supersonic speeds in excess of 2,000 mph.

China is believed to be working on engines that could travel at hypersonic speeds beyond 9,000 mph

Any missile travelling at such speeds is likely to be impervious to existing defensive systems.

Defence analysts suggest the engines could be used to upgrade the armament of China’s new stealth fighters such as the recently deployed J-20.

Such a combination would allow Chinese aircraft to operate at a greater range.

Russia and the United States are reported to be working on similar technologies.