H.R. 477: Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics Act

This bill, titled the "Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics Act" (MACH Act), aims to enhance the research and development of hypersonic vehicles and related technologies in the United States. Here are the key components of the bill:

Establishment of the Program

The bill authorizes the Administrator of NASA to establish a program dedicated to the advancement of hypersonic technology. This program will focus on:

• Facilitating tests of high-speed aircraft.
• Advancing scientific research in hypersonics.

Funding Limitations

The program is not allowed to fund the actual development of technologies that are supported by the testing opportunities it provides.

Strategic Planning

Within 60 days of the bill's enactment, NASA's Administrator is required to develop a strategic plan that will align with existing hypersonic research roadmaps.

Coordination and Consulting

The Administrator must ensure:

• Coordination between various divisions of NASA to identify eligible testing technologies.
• Consultation and collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration regarding high-speed aircraft technologies.

Reporting Requirements

The bill mandates the Administrator to report to certain congressional committees, including:

• A detailed report within 90 days after enactment that describes the Program's activities and includes the required strategic plan.
• Subsequent annual reports detailing the progress of the Program, including the number and types of testing opportunities conducted.

Research Security Provisions

The program will not permit any agreements or contracts with entities that are considered concerns, foreign business entities, or foreign countries of concern, ensuring national security in research collaboration.

Definitions

The bill includes definitions for key terms such as "entity of concern," "foreign business entity," "foreign country of concern," and "high-speed aircraft" to clarify its provisions.

Relevant Companies

• BA - Boeing: As a major player in aerospace, Boeing may be involved in partnerships for testing high-speed aircraft.
• RTX - Raytheon Technologies: Engaged in defense and aerospace technologies that could align with hypersonic research and development.
• LMT - Lockheed Martin: Actively involved in high-speed aerospace technologies and may stand to benefit from new testing opportunities.