A hypersonic vehicle is a type of aircraft or missile that can travel at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound, or Mach 5. These vehicles are designed for rapid travel and can reach altitudes that allow them to operate in the upper atmosphere. Hypersonic technology has potential applications in both military and civilian sectors, including faster transportation and advanced defense systems. The development of hypersonic vehicles involves complex engineering and materials science to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. Countries like the United States, China, and Russia are actively researching and testing hypersonic technologies to enhance their capabilities in aerospace and defense.