NASA?s Low-Density Supersonic Decelerator Project (LDSD ) is preparing
to launch its second saucer-shaped, rocket powered test vehicle into
near-space from the Navy?s Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai,
Hawaii, in June.

http://www.spaceflightinsider.com/mi.../nasas-flying-
saucer-prepares-for-another-spin/

I think this qualifies as new tech. I'm quite happy to see NASA
investing in this technology. Returning large payloads to earth in a
cost effective way would benefit ISS an has possible applications to
future commercial and exploration missions.

Jeff
--
"the perennial claim that hypersonic airbreathing propulsion would
magically make space launch cheaper is nonsense -- LOX is much cheaper
than advanced airbreathing engines, and so are the tanks to put it in
and the extra thrust to carry it." - Henry Spencer