The US military has successfully tested a hypersonic weapon system, reaching Mach 5 (~6,200 km/h). Only two other countries possess such a missile. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa) announced that the US military tested the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) in March 2022. The test was kept secret to avoid escalating the conflict in Ukraine. The hypersonic missile was launched from a B-52 bomber off the west coast of the US. It accelerated with a conventional engine before switching to a Supersonic Combustion Ramjet (Scramjet) engine developed by Aerojet Rocketdyne. The missile flew approximately 555 kilometers at an altitude of about 20 kilometers, reaching a speed of over Mach 5.
Hypersonic weapons are considered one of the most significant innovations in military technology because their high speed makes them difficult to counter. The Scramjet engine does not require moving parts, allowing for much higher speeds than traditional jet engines. Despite having the largest military budget globally, the US has faced several failed tests with this technology in the past. Currently, China and Russia are considered to be ahead of the US in hypersonic weapon systems. The Russian Avangard hypersonic glider is reported to be capable of reaching Mach 20 (~24,700 km/h). Russia has already used the Kinzhal hypersonic missile in the conflict in Ukraine.
The successful test of the HAWC system is a significant achievement for the US military, but it also highlights the growing arms race in hypersonic weapons technology. The US and other countries are investing heavily in developing these weapons, which could potentially change the balance of power in future conflicts. The development of hypersonic weapons also raises concerns about the potential for accidental or intentional escalation of conflicts. As the technology continues to advance, it is essential to consider the implications and potential consequences of its use.
