Sentry Contributor
The United States military successfully completed a milestone hypersonic missile flight test.
The U.S. Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) and Navy Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) collaborated for the December 2024 test, conducted at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, which launched a hypersonic missile that reached more than Mach 5, five times the speed of sound. The exercise was the first live-fire event for the long-range hypersonic weapon system using a battery operations center and transporter erector launcher, enabling the system to be transported horizontally and positioned vertically for launch.
“This test builds on several flight tests in which the Common Hypersonic Glide Body achieved hypersonic speed at target distances and demonstrates that we can put this capability in the hands of the warfighter,” said U.S. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, highlighting that the test underscored the collaborative efforts of the Army and Navy, pushing the boundaries of modern warfare technology.
Hypersonic missiles pose a formidable challenge to defense systems due to their speed, maneuverability and altitude. The missile’s speed and ability to evade radar detection and missile defenses significantly enhance the U.S. military’s offensive capabilities.
“The responsiveness, maneuverability and survivability of hypersonic weapons is unmatched by traditional strike capabilities for precision targeting, especially in anti-access/area denial environments,” said Lt. Gen. Robert Rasch, director of Hypersonics, Directed Energy, Space and Rapid Acquisitions for RCCTO.
The demonstration of hypersonic technology highlights the U.S.’s dedication to ensuring their capabilities are more robust, reinforcing global stability. Hypersonic weapons offer a new dimension of military capability, altering the balance of power and necessitating new strategies and defense measures from potential adversaries. The successful test marks a significant milestone in the U.S. military’s pursuit of advanced defense technologies, reflecting the nation’s commitment to maintaining a robust and responsive defense posture.