US advances hypersonics amid global competition

According to Congressional Research Service, "Although funding for these programs has been relatively restrained in the past, both the Pentagon and Congress have shown a growing interest in pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic systems."

Hypersonic missiles offer strategic advantages by reentering the atmosphere quickly and performing evasive maneuvers. They can cover thousands of kilometers and avoid discarding propulsion systems after each mission.

Various countries are developing hypersonic weapons despite challenges such as engine limitations and accuracy issues. Russia is progressing with three weapons: Kinzhal and Tsirkon missiles designed for strategic strikes with nuclear capability.

The Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) program aims to develop cost-effective air-launched hypersonic cruise missiles through flight demonstrations. This joint initiative by DARPA and the US Air Force focuses on propulsion technologies and thermal stress management.

Lockheed Martin's SR-72 "Son of Blackbird" is poised to succeed the SR-71 Blackbird as an unmanned aircraft achieving speeds over Mach 6. Stratolaunch's Talon-A offers a reusable testbed for high-speed flight testing.

The US Air Force's Mayhem program faces potential delays due to funding issues but remains focused on demonstrating a reusable hypersonic drone platform for strike operations and intelligence missions.

Hermeus' Quarterhorse Mk 1 completed ground tests at Edwards Air Force Base within 21 days. The next iteration will feature a larger engine capable of supersonic speeds.

China's MD-19 craft demonstrated versatility by launching from a TB-001 drone during nine experiments conducted in December 2024. The Avangard vehicle from Russia can carry nuclear payloads over long distances using ballistic missile carriers.

Despite its potential for military and civilian applications, hypersonic technology faces significant cost barriers alongside engineering challenges related to heat management, material durability, defense penetration, maneuverability precision, and communication maintenance during flight.