MHD power for directed and kinetic energy payloads on hypersonic vehicles

A hypersonic vehicle flying at high altitudes will provide an easily ionized flow and make magneto hydro dynamic electrical power generation feasible for various high energy demand payloads. A range of MHD system design options were considered in an attempt to match the MHD generator output to several potential military payloads. An MHD-driven wideband high-power microwave (HPM) transmitter on a hypersonic vehicle could possibly be used to illuminate the ground, along the flight path of the vehicle, and detect targets over a wide area.