Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS)
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certifies expertise in the unique challenges of hypersonic missile systems. It validates proficiency in propulsion technologies, thermal protection systems, and high-speed guidance techniques for extreme operational environments.
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certifies expertise in the unique challenges of hypersonic missile systems. It validates proficiency in propulsion technologies, thermal protection systems, and high-speed guidance techniques for extreme operational environments.
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certifies expertise in the unique challenges of hypersonic missile systems. It validates proficiency in propulsion technologies, thermal protection systems, and high-speed guidance techniques for extreme operational environments.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certification is designed for:
Aerospace & Defense Engineers: Professionals specializing in hypersonic propulsion, aerodynamics, and high-speed vehicle design.
Military & Defense Personnel: Service members and specialists involved in hypersonic weapons research, missile testing, and advanced weapons development (e.g., Air Force 2M0X1, Army 94A, Navy Fire Control Technicians, Space Force missile operations).
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineers: Engineers working on thermal protection, fluid dynamics, and material science for hypersonic applications.
Materials & Chemical Engineers: Specialists developing high-temperature materials, heat-resistant coatings, and advanced fuels for hypersonic flight.
Defense Contractors & R&D Professionals: Engineers and scientists working on classified hypersonic technology projects for military and commercial aerospace applications.
Students & Early-Career Professionals: Individuals in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields seeking specialization in hypersonic weapons and vehicle systems.
ELIGIBILITY
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certification is designed for professionals working with hypersonic propulsion, guidance, and materials science. Ideal candidates must:
Verify they fit one of the “who is this for” categories.
Meet U.S. Export Control requirements (Must be a U.S. Person).
Be able to understand, read, and write in U.S. English without interpreters or translators.
Operate a computer for email, browsing, logging in, Zoom or similar, and other basic functions.
Own or have access to a desktop or tablet computer with internet access, a front-facing camera, and a microphone in a quiet area for completing exams.
CERTIFICATION STANDARDS
1. Fundamentals of Hypersonic Flight
1.1. Define hypersonic speeds and their implications on vehicle design.
1.2. Explain shockwave formation and boundary layer interactions at hypersonic velocities.
1.3. Describe aerodynamic heating and its effects on hypersonic vehicles.
2. Hypersonic Propulsion Technologies
2.1. Explain scramjet and ramjet propulsion systems.
2.2. Describe combined-cycle propulsion for long-range hypersonic systems.
2.3. Identify advanced fuels and combustion challenges in hypersonic engines.
3. Thermal Protection Systems (TPS)
3.1. Identify high-temperature materials used in hypersonic flight.
3.2. Explain active and passive cooling techniques for thermal protection.
3.3. Describe ceramic matrix composites and ablative coatings.
4. High-Speed Guidance & Navigation
4.1. Explain midcourse and terminal guidance systems for hypersonic weapons.
4.2. Describe the role of GPS, inertial navigation, and AI-driven guidance.
4.3. Identify sensor fusion techniques for high-speed target tracking.
5. Structural Considerations in Hypersonic Systems
5.1. Explain how material selection impacts hypersonic vehicle integrity.
5.2. Describe manufacturing challenges in hypersonic vehicle structures.
5.3. Identify adaptive and morphing structures for flight stability.
6. Hypersonic Weapons & Defense Applications
6.1. Describe the role of hypersonic missiles in modern warfare.
6.2. Explain hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) and their strategic advantages.
6.3. Identify counter-hypersonic defense systems and tracking challenges.
7. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in Hypersonics
7.1. Explain the use of CFD simulations in hypersonic vehicle design.
7.2. Describe wind tunnel testing methodologies for high-speed aerodynamics.
7.3. Identify key modeling parameters for hypersonic shockwave analysis.
8. Secure Data Transmission & Electronic Countermeasures (ECCM)
8.1. Identify encryption methods for secure hypersonic command and control.
8.2. Explain ECCM strategies to prevent jamming and spoofing of hypersonic systems.
8.3. Describe data latency challenges in high-speed missile networks.
9. Environmental & Ethical Considerations in Hypersonic Development
9.1. Explain the impact of hypersonic weapons on global security dynamics.
9.2. Describe regulatory challenges in testing and deployment.
9.3. Identify environmental considerations in hypersonic propulsion emissions.
RELEVANT MILITARY JOB CODES
The Certified Hypersonic Systems Specialist (CHSS) certification aligns with military and defense roles specializing in hypersonic missile systems, propulsion, and guidance. Relevant military job codes include:
2M0X1 – Air Force Missile and Space Systems Electronic Maintenance
2W0X1 – Air Force Munitions Systems Technician
94A – Army Land Combat Electronic Missile System Repairer
94S – Army Patriot System Repairer
Fire Control Technicians (FC) – U.S. Navy Missile Guidance & Control Operators
Space Force Missile Operations & Hypersonic Systems Roles
Aerospace & Defense Engineers in Hypersonic Systems Development
This certification is valuable for engineers, technicians, and defense contractors working on the next generation of hypersonic weapons, high-speed propulsion, and strategic aerospace advancements.