scramjet
A scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) is a type of air-breathing engine designed to operate at hypersonic speeds, typically above Mach 5. Unlike traditional jet engines, scramjets do not have moving parts like turbines. Instead, they compress incoming air using the vehicle's high speed, allowing fuel to ignite and combust in a supersonic airflow.
Scramjets are primarily used in experimental aircraft and space vehicles, such as the NASA X-43. They offer the potential for efficient travel in the upper atmosphere and could revolutionize air and space travel by significantly reducing flight times and fuel consumption.