U.S. Military Explores Hypersonic Weapons Amid Stockpile Refills

The United States is working to replenish its missile stockpile while developing new weapons at the same time. Among these developments are hypersonic weapons, which are gaining significant interest due to their maneuverability and speed.

Retired U.S. Marines colonel Mark Cancian, a senior advisor at CSIS, emphasized the need for a diverse range of missiles. He mentioned the importance of acquiring affordable, existing high-end systems such as Patriots, and integrating novel technologies like hypersonics.

Hypersonic systems are redefining missile capabilities. According to UC Berkeley’s Cameron Tracy, hypersonics are seen as revolutionary while traditional ballistic missiles are perceived as outdated.

“These hypersonic systems are now seen as the novel revolutionary system and the ballistic missile is seen as the archaic one,” Cameron Tracy

The race for hypersonic weaponry has seen the U.S. falling behind China and Russia. Estimates from the Government Accountability Office suggest costly investments for hypersonics. For example, Army’s Dark Eagle could exceed $40 million per missile, while the Navy’s Zumwalt Destroyers could see $70 million per missile with included development costs.

Despite this, experts like Xiaodon Liang of the Arms Control Association believe costs will decrease with increased production. Contemporary missiles range from $1.6 million for Precision Strike Missiles to $4 million for Patriots and $2.6 million for Tomahawks, highlighting the affordability challenge of hypersonics.

Hypersonic weapons promise remarkable speed and reduced response time. Such capabilities enhance evasion and strike potential, with the Atlantic Council estimating fewer weapons needed for missions.

Startup companies strive to lower production costs and facilitate comprehensive testing. Castelion, supported by the Army and Navy, aims to manufacture Blackbeard hypersonic weapons at an affordable price, with a dedicated factory expected to produce thousands annually.

“The weapon itself is under $500,000, which… is incredibly cheap,” Bryon Hargis, Castelion CEO

Hargis stressed hypersonics offer far-reaching and fast capabilities. He emphasized production as a catalyst for American manufacturing innovation.

Hypersonics generally operate within Earth’s atmosphere, offering flexibility and quick strike capabilities over significant distances.

Uncertainty surrounding initial targets and the guided missile accuracy remains. The U.S. engages in dialogue with other nations to address these concerns.

Technological advancements from testing will gradually improve performance, as noted by Tracy. Rocket Lab’s collaboration with the War Department aims to expand hypersonic testing through its HASTE program.

“With our HASTE program… what we have enabled is low-cost, high-frequency hypersonic and missile defense testing…” Brian Rogers, Rocket Lab VP

Using a suborbital test bed vehicle, Rocket Lab facilitates rapid technology insertion cycles and risk-taking to propel development.

The deployment of hypersonics remains speculative, with few weapons available and concerns about stockpile sufficiency. The U.S. military continues to explore these technologies without engaging them in combat scenarios.

Bret Baier serves as FOX News Channel’s anchor and executive editor for Special Report and hosts various programs while being recognized as a notable news anchor.