The United States is actively working to replenish and expand its missile arsenal. Alongside traditional investments, there’s a focus on innovative weapons. Mark Cancian, a retired U.S. Marines colonel and senior advisor at CSIS Defense and Security, emphasizes the need for diverse missile systems, including hypersonic weapons.
Hypersonic missiles are gaining attention due to their maneuverability and ability to travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. Cameron Tracy, a Senior Research Scholar at UC Berkeley, notes that these systems are viewed as a revolutionary advancement in missile technology.
China and Russia are leading in hypersonic development, prompting the U.S. to accelerate its efforts. Early cost estimates from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) reveal substantial investment requirements. For example, the Army’s Dark Eagle hypersonic weapon could surpass $40 million per unit, while equipping the Navy’s Zumwalt Destroyers may reach $70 million per missile.
The modernization project is reportedly two years delayed, reflecting challenges in developing and integrating essential technologies.
Replacing traditional missile systems with hypersonics involves significant financial implications. Currently, Tomahawk missiles have a cost of approximately $2.6 million, Patriot missiles nearly $4 million, and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) about $1.6 million each. This contrasts with hypersonic weapons, which require fewer units per mission.
Xiaodon Liang from the Arms Control Association highlights the investment in advanced missile programs. The military seeks weapons for specific strategic purposes, emphasizing their speed and reduced reaction time for adversaries.
Startups aim to lower hypersonic weapon production costs and enhance mass production capabilities. Castelion, for instance, is focused on developing affordable hypersonic weapons. Their Blackbeard system costs under $500,000 and aims to support military integration across various platforms, including Navy jets and Army systems.
Production advancements are crucial as hypersonic weapons provide swift, survivable, and extended-range capabilities. The weapon’s flight ability within Earth’s atmosphere allows rapid strike times from substantial distances.
Global collaboration on launch communications seeks to mitigate concerns about misinterpretation of intent. However, there remain challenges related to inaccuracy due to maneuverability.
Technological improvements over time could enhance missile performance, driven by increased testing and experiential application. Rocket Lab is participating in advancing missile technology through frequent test launches, employing the HASTE program for cost-effective system evaluation.
The U.S. military assesses strategic deployment possibilities for hypersonic weapons, although substantial usage is unlikely given stockpile considerations. Bret Baier, a prominent FOX News anchor, highlights key news coverage, including ongoing defense developments.